What do you like and dislike from spectators out on a course? Are cowbells good or bad? Do you prefer to have someone waiting with food or gatorade? What tips can you give for people who are just out to watch the race and not participate?
Having recently completed a race where the Spectators made all the difference, I have just a few thoughts on this….
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During the Annapolis 10-miler I think we saw the best-of-the-best. The town was out in full force to support 5,000+ runners in their quest to conquer hills, humidity, August temperatures, and more hills. Everyone was doing at least one of the following:
Hosing us down! Or, using a water gun to shoot the good stuff. Creative; I like it!
Handing out oranges/fruit – watch out for the peels on the course, though. Ooh, dangerous.
Providing water and/or gatorade, which is obviously appreciated 100% of the time.
Playing music, since we weren’t “allowed” to have our own.
Cheering, like it was their J-o-b! Impressive.
Opening their house/yard for bathroom use. Ha, uh, that’s both crazy and awesome. Crazy awesome!
Throughout previous races, I’ve seen some other things worth noting. I don’t know where these people come from, but I LIKE THEM!
Roses at the finish line (for the Ladies. who also happened to be the Only people running…)
Man-in-a TIGER suit (Baltimore Full/Half Marathon) dancing to “Eye of the Tiger”.
Candy handouts: gummy bears, pretzels, chocolate, beer (always finds its way in there!), jelly beans, etc.
More often than not, spectators make the race that much more exciting and enjoyable. Whether they’re just cheering/supporting, or doing one of the above, it’s awesome to be surrounded by people who think what you’re doing is pretty great. Because, obviously, it is!
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On the opposite note, the only thing I don’t enjoy from the sidelines:
“You’re in the homestretch, almost there!”
At the end of 13 miles (or 26…I’m sure…?), it never feels close enough. Just sayin’!
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A huge THANK YOU to anyone who has ever graced the sideline of Any race. You Are Awesome.
This week at the Runner’s Lounge, KLETCO asked:
What do you like and dislike from spectators out on a course? Are cowbells good or bad? Do you prefer to have someone waiting with food or gatorade? What tips can you give for people who are just out to watch the race and not participate?
Having recently completed a race where the Spectators made all the difference, I have just a few thoughts on this….
******
During the Annapolis 10-miler I think we saw the best-of-the-best. The town was out in full force to support 5,000+ runners in their quest to conquer hills, humidity, August temperatures, and more hills. Everyone was doing at least one of the following:
Throughout previous races, I’ve seen some other things worth noting. I don’t know where these people come from, but I LIKE THEM!
More often than not, spectators make the race that much more exciting and enjoyable. Whether they’re just cheering/supporting, or doing one of the above, it’s awesome to be surrounded by people who think what you’re doing is pretty great. Because, obviously, it is!
*******
On the opposite note, the only thing I don’t enjoy from the sidelines:
“You’re in the homestretch, almost there!”
At the end of 13 miles (or 26…I’m sure…?), it never feels close enough. Just sayin’!
*******
A huge THANK YOU to anyone who has ever graced the sideline of Any race. You Are Awesome.