BY: H O LLY PE TROVI CH
When looking for volunteers for a race, it’s easy to go to local schools and running clubs to get big groups to come out. You may also have family members and friends, or other people who like to be involved in the community. You’ll probably end up with a big range of people, from young to old and runners to non-runners. So the question is, where do you put them to get the most out of their abilities? MaryAgnes Zellmer from Chicago Race Management says she has a few rules in terms of organizing volunteers: “Young people are a great resource for volunteers, because most high schools require volunteer hours to graduate. The problem with young people, though, is
they need to be supervised,” Zellmer explains. “You’ll get a good group, maybe 20, and they’re good to use as course marshals because they have good energy.”
had one fall asleep before! If possible, put a runner or someone who understands the importance of their role at these spots, as participants really depend on them.
However, Zellmer strongly advises against putting younger volunteers at important parts of the course, such as intersections where runners need consistent direction; often times, high school students get bored, and start goofing around with their friends, so putting them on a straightaway where they can simply point is ideal. Also, many of them might not have their drivers licenses, or are not experienced motorists to handle traffic safely.
“Young people are always great at finish lines and handing out water, too,” Zellmer adds.
Older volunteers, on the other hand, aren’t great course marshals, as Zellmer has
Joel Feinberg from Universal Sole events recommends placing experienced volunteers in all areas as captains so they can help teach and oversee duties. “Never put new volunteers or people that have not worked with your event in areas where it is critical for the race i.e. course crossing at major intersection or turnaround points,” Feinberg reiterates.
“Never put new volunteers or people that have not worked with your event in areas where it is critical for the race i.e. course crossing at major intersection or turnaround points.” 12
FEBRUARY 2019
MYCHICAGOATHLETE.COM