Title: The Big Day
The anticipation builds as the big day gets closer and closer on the calendar. Finally, May 22 is here. You wake up in the morning, get everything together and try to get some food into your nervous stomach. You double and triple check your gear then head over to Folsom. When you arrive and see all the athletes and pageantry of the event, you know it’s for real. There’s no turning back. You check in at race central and begin the odyssey that will end in euphoria and celebration hours later.
An athlete’s diary? Could be, but this is this the story of Californiaman volunteer. There is no athletic event in the world to rival the passion and emotion of an ironman triathlon. With Californiaman in your backyard, you have the unique opportunity to participate in this amazing day of human achievement and perseverance. You will experience everything from the amazing performances of the elite professional racers to the inspirational struggles of the average person striving to finish the longest race of their lives. The Californiaman organizers would like to extend an invitation to you to join them on the course, in the middle of the action, as a race volunteer. Over 1,000 total volunteers will tend to the every need of these amazing athletes and keep them safe and secure throughout their big day.
There are many different volunteer assignments and we will attempt to place you in a position that most interests you and is convenient to your schedule. Groups such as students, churches or neighborhood friends are welcome and you can stay together working as a team. As a volunteer you will receive a commemorative race T-shirt and a delicious meal at the finish line after your shift is completed. Here are some examples of interesting volunteer assignments that you may request.
**Race Headquarters Check-in area: **on Thurs May 20 and Friday May 21, all the athletes must report to check-in to receive their race numbers, gear and other important items. You can help join the effort to get the athletes through the line and prepared for their big day
Swim – The swim venue at Folsom Point requires volunteers to guide the athletes to their bicycles upon their exit from the water, keep them safe and organized as they mount their bicycles and pedal off and collect their swim wetsuits, goggles and other gear to deposit at the finish area. One of the most desired volunteer positions in all the sport is the ‘body marker’. Here you get to inspect the Californiaman athletes up close as they must disrobe to get ink stamped numbers on numerous areas of their bodies. Yes you can work a line of opposite sex athletes but you had better check in soon – these positions get filled fast!!
Bike – Volunteers are needed to ensure cyclists stay on course at intersections and remain safe from potential auto traffic. While the course is closed to traffic, it is essential to ensure stray vehicles do not enter the roadway and conflict with cyclists. In addition to traffic control, there are numerous aid stations on the bike where riders will be handed water bottles, food or even a special personalized bag with their gear. Aid station workers will also get a good workout, as you have to run alongside the cyclists as they slow to receive aid – they ain’t stopping!
Run – Every mile of the run course offers fluid and energy aid, requiring many hands to help the runners receive their aid quickly and continue on. This is a great place for a group because a festive, spirited, party crowd can help inspire a tired runner. Many groups are creating ‘theme’ aid stations with decorations, costumes, bright colors and rockin’ music. Get a group of a dozen or more together and ‘claim’ one of the Californiaman aid stations for May 22 and also years to come.
Finish Line – After their big accomplishment, these athletes need all kinds of help and support. Here they will get refueled, reclaim their gear and perhaps need minor attention for aches and pains. If you have medical experience please notify the race staff of your valuable expertise. Another coveted volunteer position is to drape the finisher medal around each racer’s neck after they cross the line. Sign up quick!
Time Schedule
Please note that there are two races taking place on May 22 – the Californiaman ironman-distance event and the Caliman Half – a half-ironman distance event. Also, due to the length of the Californiaman event (some competitors will finish in 16 hours) there will be several shifts of volunteers.
Okay I’m Ready – What do I Do?
Please contact Californiaman Volunteer Coordinator Darryl Moxley with your interest at 877-225-1626 or email: darryl@bikeshop2u.com
Please indicate your most desired position, desired time block, special skills or experience and whether you represent a group. Darryl will discuss details with you. Thank you for supporting Californiaman!