Another Goal Off the List: Volunteering at a Race

Good morning, it's 5 a.m.

First, let me start with saying I'm sorry. I was a volunteer and was happy to provide my time to a race, but apparently, I left my brain power behind.  Forgive me, races gods, for I have sinned.

I woke up today at 4 a.m. to head out to Batavia for the Bridge to Bridge 5K and 10K to knock out one of my 12 Goals for 2012. It's the second year of this race, which benefits a Montessori school and the Batavia Lions Club. As a Lion, I was happy to pitch in my time to another club.

The top male made this look effortless

I spent my time handing out numbers for the 10K, then handing out medals at the finish line of the 10K.  It was great meeting all the runners in the morning and wishing them the best in their race.

The female winner of the 10K was amazing. She was 13. I knew she was destined to finish fast when she showed up with her own race belt and the best gear, then asked me about the age breakdowns. When I gave her the finisher's medal, I told her that I thought she was the top woman. She told me she knew she was. If by some miracle you're reading this, just know that you are an inspiration. I wish at 13 someone had told me to get my ass off the couch and start running.

My biggest sin of the day was realized when I discovered I gave the top female 5K finisher the wrong bib and they announced the wrong name. I felt very guilty, and told her that I was sorry. She was cool with it. A winner is a winner, and they can fix my botched timing job.

This whole experience was inspiring and positive. I enjoyed feeling everyone's nervous energy, as well as helping out another Lions club. One 10K finisher cried when she completed the race and hugged one of my fellow volunteers. It's cool to reconnect with that exhilaration, which is what I feel when I finish each successive distance or set a new PR. This race was a great family event with a 1-mile kids race where the little ones get a medal. I have a whole new appreciation for the volunteers who make races possible. And at 220 runners, it's the perfect sized race that I hope to run it again next year.