High quality events start with two fundamentals - an accurate and safe course. Course monitors are critical to the success and safety of our runners and we couldn't do it without this team of superstars!

As a course monitor, you'll set equipment and/or signage into place to help alert drivers that the roads are closed and you may need to help them find an alternate route to their destination. 

You’re also the friendly face that reassures runners they’re headed the right way, helps prevent any accidental shortcuts, and calls for medical support if someone needs a hand. You get to see every runner from the first to the last, and they’ll appreciate your energy every step of the way.

On race morning, check in at the volunteer tent in the Lake Hollingsworth Parking lot between 5:45 AM and 5:50 AM to confirm your location and tasks along the course.

Safety!
Monitor runners for medical issues. If it is an emergency, dial 911. If a runner needs transport then use the QR code on the back of your volunteer badge for a list of race committee personal and contact (click on their name) the person for Safety Issues. Note their bib number so we can drop them from the race, and notify the runner may have to wait a bit or they can walk back to the start.

Homeowners or commuters not aware of our event may be frustrated. Our goal is to de-escalate and then assist them with an alternate route (see map below) or a timeline of when they can expect the street(s) to reopen.

While our closures begin at 6:30, it can make sense to assist someone. (i.e it's 6:30 am and someone wants to leave the Country Club parking lot. You can escort them across Lake Hollingsworth Dr to Coventry, but at 6:50 am, we would ask them to wait until all runners are clear. If a driver needs more room to execute a 180° turn, it's OK to move your barrier to make it easier). 

Only the law enforcement has full control over vehicular traffic. If a driver insists on entering the closed course, your primary concern is the safety of the runners. That may mean stopping the runners. Once the runners are safe, use the QR code on the back of your volunteer badge for a list of race committee personal and contact (click on their name) the person for Safety Issues.

What to Wear: dress for adventure!
You’ll be experiencing the same weather as the runners — sunshine, humidity, breezes, or maybe a rain shower. In the event of severe weather, you will be notified so that you can get all runners safely back to their cars prior to opening the streets.

Every volunteer receives a special orange Lakeland Runners Club volunteer shirt and safety vest — this is your badge of honor and the easiest way for runners to spot the heart & soul that makes race day possible. Pair it with comfortable shoes because you will be standing or strolling and cheering for quite a while. 

No volunteer shirt, lanyard or safety vest yet? No problem—you can grab all of it at volunteer check-in (see the site plan below).

When are you clear to leave your position?
For volunteers in positions A - E (Team 1) you are in position until the last runner finishes. 

For volunteers in positions F - P (Team 2) When the last runner is on the path past Success it is safe for you to leave your post. This typically occurs around 7:30 am. Please place all signage and equipment exactly where you found it (please don't carry it across the street).

For volunteers in positions Q - S (Team 2) please leave all signage and equipment exactly as it was placed and you are safe to leave once the sweeper has passed you.