There comes a time when I feel my place is on the other side of the finish line. For every race or run I’m guestimating there are at least 100 volunteers. Before there is a need for volunteers, there are hours of strategizing, discussing and organizing in preparation for any running event. I decided that I’d get in a volunteer weekend last month in order to support the organizers who put together the running and hiking courses so many of us look forward to each year.
My first volunteer stint was at the KTA Trail Challenge. This 25K run/hike is held at the beautiful Susquehannock State Park near the Pennslvania/Maryland border. It was a bit of a distance for me although I love an early morning drive with the sun rising.
We volunteers checked in runners and hikers at a picnic area. They were then bussed to the start. An earlier bus was available for those who chose.
I heard finishers describe the course as both technical and beautiful. The Finish line was located at a panormaic overlook of the Susquehanna River. Results can be found at Falcon Race Timing.
Consider this event for your next 25K on trail whether you are running, hiking or volunteering. Come mingle with other runners and enjoy the best finish line food I have seen, including a selection of entrees with vegetarian choices.
Thank you KTA for the work you do protecting trails and hosting hiking events.
My second volunteer venture of the weekend was a Sunday morning 1/2 Marathon, also along the Susquehanna River but closer to home. For over twenty years, I have either run or volunteered for the Harrisburg 1/2 Marathon and 10K. The event helps support YMCA activities, particularly those for family and children.
I ran the 1/2 in the rain last year. Today, it was dry but runners felt the humidity. This year, I had a premier volunteer spot passing out age group medals. Located near the finish line, I could turn in one direction and cheer finishers and then hand out awards to the top three finishers in each age group.
I didn’t have much time for photos, but I did find time to volunteer for two organizations that do good work and provide venues to run, hike, race and enjoy the company of others who do the same.
Still a Runner 
How fun that would be to hand out age group medals, Mary Lou. These races would not be happening without the wonderful volunteers. Thank you so much for volunteering.
I’ll be volunteering this Sunday for a 10k race this Sunday for the Monarch Ultra. I’ve also been on the organizing committee. That has been an eye opener for me. I had no idea there was so much involved with organizing a race. Hope it has been a great year for you. 🏃🏻♀️😀
Thanks, Carl. I have directed races as well and understand the importance of every volunteer. I just took a look at your article about the troubled monarch. I learned a great deal and now understand why I see fewer monarchs. They generally reach Pennsylvania sometime in August.
You are welcome, Mary Lou. And thank you for stopping by. It will be hard to imagine a world with our beloved monarch butterfly. If we all do our part we can make a difference. 🦋