Hello runner friends!
Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series
MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!
Now let’s get started by talking about two things that go together like peanut butter and jelly… racing and volunteering. Why? Because races can’t take place without volunteers and because most of the volunteers are racers themselves. Why? Because racers enjoy running and reaching finish lines as much they enjoy helping others run and reach finish lines. This is why you will regularly see Bass Pro Fitness Series runners both participating in and volunteering at local Springfield events and beyond.
See those smiling faces in the photo above? Those selfless souls not only helped me get to the finish line of the Frisco Railroad Run Saturday, they helped a record number of other runners make it there as well. Between their encouraging words, their keeping the snacks coming and the personal filling of the runners’ hydration devices, these volunteers made the race better for everyone! Just ask any of the runners who were there.
Which is the very reason I asked them to share with you the reason(s) they volunteer. And why you should too! After all, we can’t have races without smiling faces. So without further ado… check out what these people who are worth their weight in gold had to say:
I volunteer because I have been that person on more than one occasion whose race was literally saved by a knowledgeable and caring volunteer who knew exactly what to say and do to fix an issue I was having. I know how important it is, particularly in ultras, to have those people out there, supporting not only runners but their crews as well. And these events wouldn't even happen without the tireless efforts of race directors and their armies of volunteers making sure things go off as planned on race day. Volunteering and knowing you were possibly instrumental in helping someone achieve his or her goal is richly rewarding and I highly recommend the experience to anyone who wants to witness some of the best of humanity out on a race course! - Stephanie Lane
Because i know how much work it takes to get through a long hard run….and being a part of someone’s success is a great feeling! I love seeing people do dumb-hard things!!!! ♥️ - Jill Brockman
I volunteer to give back to the running community. But mostly because I truly enjoy helping runners get to that finish line. Whether it is a cold towel to refresh their face or massaging a cramped muscle. I hope I bring a smile or bit of relief to them when they are at my aide station. I use humor quite a bit to ease the seriousness of their mind when the dig gets deep. But I can also slap them on the butt and tell them to keep moving and get out of my aide station! - Heidi Thomas
I started volunteering after my race at Frisco in 2023. It was at that race that I myself experienced the difference that volunteers make when doing the long distances and how they can be the entire reason you finish. I wanted to be able to help other runners, especially the back of the pack runners, meet their goals and succeed. Plus for them to feel less alone in the struggle. For me it was about giving back and helping in the same way that I was helped in my first ultra. I know all too well what it can feel like to hit the pain cave and have nobody there to support you, so for me it was putting myself in a position to be that support in whatever way a runner needs so they don’t feel alone in that moment. - Makayla Cornelius
Absolutely love helping others! Being in an aid station is the give back to the running community that gives my huband and I inspiration to be better! Runners are the most positive people in the world! I leave an aid station feeling accomplished and ready to take on my next goal! Plus, it is a fun fun, fun time! If you work with me, you should know I love to laugh! I ❤️ crewing runners and aid stations! I will take great care of you!! And then we might become friends! #KINGCREWYOU - Lisa King
“so I don’t have to run” - Dylan McGuire
I volunteer for all the good reasons already mentioned. And for the leftover cold pizza. - Chris Hines
I enjoy playing a small role and watching people achieve their goals. I love seeing all the different levels of goals that runners have from a 5k and don't die to 200 miles. - David Murphy
And there you have it friends. Running makes a person happy but so does volunteering! So look for opportunities to bless others (click here for some awesome BPFS opportunities) knowing that you yourself will be blessed in the process. Happy Running!
No comments:
Post a Comment