Cheers to the Volunteers
Posted by FLATOUT JIM in race
Been a few days, but I’m back. My A Race is in the books, and I am ecstatic. But I’ll fill everyone in later, this post is a must.
In the 27 year history of the St. John’s Triathlon, yesterday was the worst conditions ever. Rain drizzle and fog, 10 degrees C, and a brutal wind gusting to over 50 clicks at times. That’s what makes this post even more important because this is about the volunteers.
On such a brutal day when even a large number of dedicated athletes decided to stay in their nice warm beds, another army of volunteers showed up and gave their free time so people like me could indulge in their hobby.
Some were friends and family of competitors, some were athletes who decided to skip participating but still gave up their morning, still more had virtually no connection to the sport other than they got a sense of satisfaction from giving their time.
There were kayakers, and life guards, body markers, course marshals, as well as captains of each discipline. There were people giving out water and Gatorade, and the oh so precious medals, and the inglorious job of cleaning up afterwards. Some peoples time started on Wednesday with the Kids of steel.
To each and every individual who came out to help on Sunday. Please accept my heart felt thanks. If I could have, I would have stopped and shook each and everyone’s hand during the race.
Special thanks to coach Paul who once again gave up his race ambitions to take on the role of Race Director, and Michael AJ, who continues to lead the team as head of the race committee, but still always finds time to have a quick chat, despite how busy he is.
