U.S.A.F. Marathon officials seek more volunteers as runner registration climbs toward record number

Published Aug. 7, 2008
By Chris McGee
88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB, Ohio -- As the number of runners registering for the 2008 United States Air Force Marathon far outdistances last year's pace, the need for volunteers to work the marathon becomes more pressing.

Registration figures as of Aug. 4 stood at 4,550, a 38 percent increase from the 3305 that were registered the same time last year. At that pace, overall registration will exceed 9,200, compared to last year's total of more than 6,700.

Last year, approximately 2,000 volunteers supported the marathon. Currently, about 400 are enlisted to help. The twelfth annual United States Air Force Marathon is Sept. 20, 2008. Events include a marathon, wheelchair marathon, half marathon, individual 10K, and team 10K. In addition, a 5K race will take place on September 19, 2008, at Wright State University.

While volunteers are stepping forward all the time, many more are needed. Volunteers provide essential support to the marathon and make the event possible, according to Rob Aguiar, marathon volunteer coordinator.

"Volunteers are the key; without them, the marathon does not happen," Mr. Aguiar said. "They are the work force and the energy that make this marathon happen."

Volunteers perform a variety of key roles at the marathon, serving as course marshals and expo registration workers, as well as helping out with runners' security, hydration stations and course set up and tear down.

Anyone 18 or older can volunteer. Those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent.

Anyone interested in serving as a marathon volunteer can visit the marathon web site at www.usafmarathon.com or call the marathon office at 937-257-4350. Information on specific volunteer positions is available on the web site, under the registration tab.