Hundreds of volunteers braved the cold on Sunday morning to assist at the 20 aid stations along the course
The 2009 Bank of America Chicago Marathon got off to a chilly start on Sunday morning. With temperatures in the low 30′s, race officials worried that many of the volunteers wouldn’t show. While it may have been tempting to watch the race from the warm comfort of their homes, the people of Chicago did not disappoint. Volunteers arrived by the bus load, showing how truly dedicated they were to helping make this year’s race a success.
Volunteers await the runners in Lincoln Park
Volunteers began arriving to the course as early as 5:00am. Trucks of Gatorade, Power Bars, and drinking cups were unloaded and supplies were set up at the 20 aid stations along the course. One of the first stations to great the runners was at the Lincoln Park 5 mile mark. 20 year-old volunteer Sarah Conrad didn’t mind the early hours or the chilly temperatures. “The excitement from the crowd is almost tangible,” she said. “I want to jump in there and run with them!”
Runners were greeted by an Elvis impersonator at the 10 mile mark. The eerily convincing look-a-like shook his hips and belted out some well known tunes on the Fleet Feet volunteer stage. At the same location, Energizer volunteers handed out pink bunny ears and coffee to spectators.
An Elvis impersonator encourages runners at the Fleet Feet volunteer tent
Runners found sustenance in the second half of the race. Sponsors like Whole Foods Market and Power Bar provided oranges, electrolyte supplements, and power gels. Each food station was supported by at least 15 volunteers happily handing out and restocking supplies.
21 doctors volunteered their time at the course’s 10 medical aid stations. Thanks to the crisp fall weather, they didn’t see very many injuries.
Volunteers at the post-race festival in Grant Park congratulated the excited finishers, handing out medals and lining them up for their finish photos. Bananas, bagels, and other refreshments were available in the 5 food tents set up in the park. Runners over the age of 21 were able to enjoy a post-race beer thanks to local brewery, 312, and their volunteers. “I deserve this beer!” shouted one runner, “Thank you Goose Island!”.
Side Bar:
The Health and Fitness Expo was open on Friday and Saturday before the marathon
Before the marathon, hundreds of extra volunteers dedicated their time and the Health and Fitness Expo in McCormick Place. The annual expo took place in McCormick Place and featured over 175 sponsors. Volunteers assisted marathon participants with check-in and packet pick-up as well as answered questions about race day. Professional runners like Dean Karnazes (Ultramarathon Man) and Olympian Deena Kastor also volunteered their time and made several special appearances.
To see the full list of Expo speakers visit the Bank of America Chicago Marathon website.
Summary text box:
Next month meet us at the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C.! Race organizers are still looking for medical volunteers and certain volunteer groups are still accepting members. Visit the MCM volunteer site to sign up.
Other upcoming races:
The ING New York City Marathon 10/1
The St. Jude Memphis Marathon 12/5
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