The Other Side

I helped a friend this weekend who was one of the directors of her church’s running event. The Crossroads Community Church 5k was the first running event for the church, but I bet it won’t be the last. The event was a fundraiser for their food pantry ministry. There was a large table overflowing with donated foods and  with over 220 registrants, the race registration fees added up too. Kudos to all of the planners. The event was a success and everyone seemed to have a great time.

As a runner, it was a little different for me. I was comitted to helping with same day registration and then at the finish line. There were a few times that I wished I had been running it instead, but at the same time, it was a great experience to see things from the volunteer’s perspective. The same day registration was lively. People were in good spirits and ready to take on the course. There were seasoned runners and brand new runners who were running their first 5k ever. It was really fun to see so many new runners.

At the end of the race, my husband and I collected the perforated tabs from the bottom of everyone’s bibs. It wasn’t chip timed so it was important that we collect the #’s in the order that people crossed the finish line. I tried to do a good job, but I’m fairly positive we screwed up the order of some of the numbers. People were running right past us and I had to go chase after them or they didn’t realize we’d need their tabs so they threw them away or left them in the car…Let’s just say it was a challenge, but a good experience none the less. I know I could do it better next time, but I probably wouldn’t be quick to volunteer for that particular position. Too much pressure!

I think it’s easy for runners to take advantage of volunteers. I know I have. I mean, I’m thankful and I give a quick shout of thanks while I’m being handed water, but I’ve never really thought about all of the work behind a race. What really struck me is the volunteer’s united hope that each and every runner have a positive experience. That’s what it comes down to. From race start, to water along the route, the finish line and a raffle afterward, volunteers are trying to make it fun for the runner. How cool is that? There are so many people at the race that are there just to ensure we have a good time. I’ve never thought of it that way before.

So I’m glad I volunteered, but next time, I’m back to running. I’m taking with me a little more appreciation for all of the race volunteers out there. A big thank you to all of the volunteers out there and a big thanks to my friend Angela for letting me participate!

Tagged as: 5k, race, running event, volunteer