Before the sun had even risen, a group of Huron students gathered in front of Concordia University on Oct.13 to help volunteer at the annual Ann Arbor Marathon. Numerous students assisted at the aid station, passing water and Gatorade to the runners, while others served as course marshals, directing runners in the right direction.
For the volunteers, the day began at 6:45 a.m., as they arrived bundled in hoodies, sweatpants, and raincoats, determined to stay dry and warm in the cold drizzle rain. From organizing the tables to mixing gatorade concentrations, the students worked tirelessly together to get ready to best help the runners. Even as the rain poured down harder and harder, the students still did not give up, remaining committed to completing their tasks. Whether it be wrapping themselves in blankets, running in place to stay warm, or huddling together to preserve heat, they all found ways to cope with the rain and continue helping out as best they could.
“When I was standing alone as a course marshall, I wanted to leave because the cold and rain were so miserable,” junior Kyle Johnsen, an NHS volunteer said. “However, the people running in the marathon were so inspirational to me that I thought the least I could do was stand and hold the flag in the air.”
The marathon featured multiple race options, including a 5k, 10k, half-marathon, and full marathon. As runners began to pass by the station, the volunteers sprang into action as they quickly handed out water and gatorade and shouted encouraging words to cheer the runners on. “You’ve got this!” and “Almost halfway!” motivated the runners to pick up their speeds with a smile on their faces.
By the end of the day, though tired, the volunteers were proud of what they had accomplished.
The Ann Arbor Marathon was a test of endurance for the athletes, but also a test for the volunteers. The NHS students were able to persevere and show their commitment and dedication to help make the event successful despite the rain. The students left not only knowing they had helped service their community, but with a sense of accomplishment as they had been part of something bigger than themselves.
