I came across the opportunity of volunteering for the renowned New York City Marathon this November. This event allowed me to treat runner and help them hydrate during the intense marathon. It was my first time to have the front-row seat to the action of supporting runners at fluid station. I was responsible of setting up and breakdown of stations and assist in distributing water and sports drink to thousands of thirsty runners throughout the day. It was a great assignment where I tapped into my inner cheerleader and of course also meeting new friends!
My area assignment was in Mile 15 in Brooklyn and I was already there at 6:30 am preparing all the fluids before the first batch of runners arrive. I met with the leader of the group who gave me an orientation of how I should arrange the cups and how I should give it out to the runners. The amount of fluid to put inside the paper cup must only be 1/3 as the runners who are taking them will not spill them over, otherwise it would be problematic when the cups are full. It was inspiring to see the energy of the runners and having to witness fellow volunteers cheering on for them – whether the runners were disabled, elderly, coming from different cultural backgrounds – everyone was welcome! It was the type of open mindedness and support that I got really inspired about. I think I never experienced something like the energy of New Yorkers. Everyone is just supporting each other and there is no type of being secluded from the rest of the group. On top of that, I also saw some renowned celebrities from around the world coming here to participate in this world class even which attract and inspire more than 300,000 runners internationally. I am sure this won’t be my last volunteer for NYRR!
