Lemme just say… if you want to get hyped about running a race or to motivate you to actually sign up for one, GO VOLUNTEER at a marathon.
OMG.
So exciting ya’ll.
Hubs and I got up at 5AM to make our way downtown (about an 1 hour-ish away)…
whatcha do when you’re in the starbucks line? You take a picture of your smiling face 
We had to park a little ways away and walk to mile 5 our assigned volunteer spot and then we did a lot of this…
See I have gloves on? it was SO cold. I felt for all the runners out there. Running in cold weather is bananas.
Then shortly the elite runners were on their way… you start hearing the crowds cheering and then you hear this roar over your head, look up and bam! its a helicopter catching all the action. It was amazing to see the elite runners…
I tried to take pictures, but soon after the elite runners passed, the other runners were on their way and then it was just crazy! I loved how everyone had their names on their bib, so I’d make a point to say “Good Job so-in-so!” every chance I got. So much fun!
I definitely encourage everyone to volunteer at some point, its a great experience.
Here’s a video from the local news station:
I totally agree!!! I volunteered at a sprint triathlon over the summer, and that one experience motivated me to start training for a half-marathon.
Looks like you had fun!
Wow. That sounds like fun!
Volunteering is so rewarding isn’t it? I can only imagine how much fun you had. I really want to volunteer at a longer distance race, I have at a 5k and it’s over so quick. I want to see some elite athlete’s and get caught up in the excitement!!!
I really want to volunteer and/or spectate someday, I think it would be so fun. Good for you!
YAY for volunteers AND spectators! Without them, what would racers do?? I have yet to volunteer (shame on me), but I think I may soon…especially since i’m sidelined. I’d love to see the super fast people!