WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – Air Force Marathon volunteers closed out the 2022 race season by packing up participation merchandise for virtual marathoners Oct. 11 in a base warehouse.
A group of volunteers packed up medals, patches, T-shirts and other various products.
Officials say it’s only because of hardworking volunteers the Air Force Marathon is able to put on a success event year after year.
“Our volunteers put in countless hours as well to ensure the event is wonderful,” said Rachael Ferguson, Air Force Marathon director.
Debra Unterman has been volunteering since the event began 26 years ago.
“I did it the first year, kind of fell in love with it,” she said, “and then just kept coming year after year.”
Unterman enjoys the energy of the runners and seeing the smiles on their faces when she cheers them on, motivating them to keep going. She also likes working with the other volunteers every year.
“It’s like one big party between all the volunteers,” she added.
Ferguson said race organizers are thankful for each and every one of them.
“It’s because of our volunteers that our participants and spectators are able to have a great experience,” she said.
Registration for the 2023 Air Force Marathon opens Nov. 28 and the race will be held Sept. 16. For more information, visit www.usafmarathon.com.