Despite what you see in the news and magazines and massive ad campaigns, running is not an established sport. At it’s very core, running is a rebellious, underground sport that has gone mainstream.
Do you remember your first road race? Ever? I remember mine…it was a 10k race in Washington DC that ran around RFK stadium. There were maybe 250 folks there. I remember getting passed by a doode with no shoes on; and regretting the oversized shorts and cotton t-shirt. I remember the post-race party with doughnuts. In fact, I still have the picture of me nearly passing out about a mile from the finish.
This wasn’t a big event. The organizers didn’t make a lot of money…I think it was for a charity. But there were mile markers, aid stations, and crowd support. I don’t remember much about any other race I’ve done, save for the last year or so. But that first race will stay with me.
Sure, I could have done some mega event. Lined up with 20,000 other people for a half marathon. But this was cheap, easy to get to, and promised a fun challenge with people I shared a common interest with.
It’s not that the event itself was incredibly special. I do think that the way the event came together, supported by local running clubs and other volunteers out to make a difference with their particular charity, however, is unique.
Every weekend across the country, thousands of people line up in a local race. Events that will never make the front page or have elite, famous runners. But these events are a critical first step in making running both accessible and fun to generations of runners. Do your part to make sure that running continues to grow by taking a weekend (or two!) a year and offering to help out at a local event. It only takes a few hours but could make a lifetime difference for the participants.
Have any wacky volunteer stories to share?
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