2010 Richmond Marathon – MTT Volunteer Report

My Richmond Marathon volunteer experience was different from previous years. I got the same sense of satisfaction for helping the runners, but this year I gained a new perspective on what running is really about.

Spending a few hours with 3 amazing coaches from the Marathon Training Team will do that.

2010 Napier Realtors Sprint Triathlon – Volunteer Report

After speaking up about my dissatisfaction on 2 different occasions volunteering at RMS events, I had a chance to do something about it. Here’s my report on being the Volunteer Coordinator for the Napier Realtors Sprint Triathlon in Midlothian, VA on Oct 10, 2010.

2010 Patrick Henry Half Marathon – Volunteer Report

An amazing volunteer experience at the Patrick Henry Half Marathon in Ashland, VA. Big shout out to Richmond Road Runners Club & SportsBackers for coordinating an awesome race.

It’s obvious they’ve been putting on races for years because they nailed almost every aspect of the volunteer experience. Although, I did find 2 things they could do better…

RMS volunteer coordinator, you’re 0 for 2

A letter to the Richmond Multisports’ volunteer coordinator detailing my volunteer experience at the Pink Power Triathlon in Midlothian, VA. My one and only suggestion for improving the experience at your next race… Pick Me!

Tips for coordinating volunteers during a race

These are some ideas I came up with on how to better manage & coordinate volunteers during a race, particularly when managing aid stations on a run course. I’m not an expert, and have never coordinated a race myself, but if you’ve ever volunteered for a race before, I think you’ll understand where I’m coming from.

Aid station tips for race volunteers

Here is a list of tips when working an aid station or water stop on a run course. I cover some general tips, races in the heat & dealing with elite runners. I’ve also included a checklist for volunteers on what to bring.

Volunteer for a race when injured

I know it sucks to be injured. And you probably don’t want to watch hundreds of people doing the thing you love, but are unable to do because of your injury. But you owe it to your sport. And more importantly, you owe it to your fellow athletes who I’m sure have volunteered (and maybe even saved your ass a few times) for races that you have run.

Here’s a recap of my volunteer experience for the Rockett’s Landing Tri in Richmond, VA.

Running with a stranger at Old Dominion

A complete stranger asked me to run 11 miles with him, at night, through the mountains, for 4 hours… and I seized the opportunity. I learned a few things in the process, and I now call him my friend.