Marathon needs more volunteers

  • Published
  • By Darrius Parker
  • 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

Events for the 26th Air Force Marathon are scheduled to begin Sept. 15 with volunteer opportunities available until Aug. 31 in Fairborn, Ohio. Over 2,500 volunteers are needed to ensure all of the Air Force Marathon events take off without a hitch. (Contributed photo)

Events for the 26th Air Force Marathon are scheduled to begin Sept. 15 with volunteer opportunities available until Aug. 31 in Fairborn, Ohio. Over 2,500 volunteers are needed to ensure all of the Air Force Marathon events take off without a hitch. (Contributed photo)
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WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – The 26th annual Air Force Marathon is less than a month away, and plenty of positions remain for people who want to help out.  

More than 1,000 volunteers are still needed this year, officials said, as registration is only 35 percent filled. The sign-up period ends Aug. 31.

“As we come back to being in-person this year, we are so excited to welcome all the mighty volunteers it takes to put on our event successfully,” Air Force Marathon Director Rachael Ferguson said. “We literally could not have the amazing race experience without all the individuals who give up their time to help make it happen.”

Whether it’s an individual or group, opportunities to volunteer are available for the Sept. 15-17 events below:

  • Health & Fitness Expo

  • 5K

  • Finish line/festival

  • Bike escorts

  • Amateur radio operators

  • Green team

  • Hydration stations

  • Course entertainment

“The experience of being a part of the Air Force Marathon is one that is not easy to forget, not only for the runners, but also for our volunteers,” Ferguson said. “The energy they bring to encourage our participants is contagious.”

Those who want to volunteer with 10 or more people can email usaf.marathon@us.af.mil to learn about other opportunities meant for larger groups.

All volunteers will receive a complimentary Flight Crew T-shirt, refreshments at the Expo and on race day, and invitations to the postrace “After Party at the Greene.”

Volunteer shifts vary, depending on the position, but most commitments are four hours or less and times range from early morning to evening.

All volunteer roles are open to the public and Wright-Patterson Air Force Base access is not required. Individual volunteers must be 16 or older. Children under age 16 can only volunteer with a parent, guardian or trusted adult.

Volunteers can register at www.usafmarathon.com/volunteer.

For more information, email usaf.marathon@us.af.mil or visit www.usafmarathon.com.