As we get closer to Action Festival 2013 and the five- and 10-kilometre Giant’s Head Run and Man of Steel Triathlon, I want to say a huge thank you to our volunteers!
In the months before our races, the staff at the Recreation Department work hard with planning and organizing the biggest special event for our department. We have close to 1,000 race participants each year. One of the biggest challenges is the recruiting and training of our volunteers. Volunteers give out race packages and administer registration; they marshal the race routes and co-ordinate the safety between vehicles and athletes. Volunteers time the bike, swim and the three chutes at the run finish line. Volunteers are out on the race course at the aid stations with water for all the athletes and they are at the finish line announcing racers names and giving out awards.
The Recreation Department staff work with over 100 volunteers that make these events happen. We truly appreciate their time, commitment and smiling faces. Many volunteers have been assisting at the Giant’s Head Run and Man of Steel Triathlon for many years and some have watched young children participate that are now adults and bringing their own children to continue the tradition.
So this year when you are taking part in the Giant’s Head Run or the Man of Steel Triathlon please take a quick moment to thank the volunteers that assist making a great event.
Saturday, June 1, 2013 is race day and registration forms are available at the aquatic centre, www.summerland.ca or www.runningroom.com
Have fun and have a safe race!!
Brenda Ingram is the programs and facility manager for the District of Summerland and proud to be a long-time resident of this great community.