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Races for all Paces

Sat June 6, 2026
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Course Positions

Stadium Entrance Volunteer

June 6, 2026

Details

Help participants safely enter O’Brien Stadium and find the correct path to the finish line. This role combines light course direction, safety awareness, and encouragement to keep runners and spectators moving smoothly.

Key Duties Include:
- Wayfinding
- Guiding runners into the stadium in the correct direction
- Preventing runners from entering through the Kids Zone
- Assisting spectators and non-participants with safe entry
- Cheering and encouraging runners as they approach the finish

This is a stationary role that plays an important part in keeping the finish area safe and organized.

Location

East entrance of O’Brien Stadium, near Lantz Stadium

Finish Line Assistance High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Help create an exciting, safe, and organized finish line experience for runners. Finish Line volunteers cheer participants across the line, distribute medals and refreshments, and support runners as they complete their race.

Key Duties Include:
- Setting up and distributing medals
- Guiding runners safely through the finish area
- Handing out water and refreshments
- Assisting runners who may need extra support
- Keeping the finish line clear for timing and photos

This is an energetic, fast-paced role that makes a big impact on participant experience.

Location

Finish line inside O’Brien Stadium

Course Cheer & Direction Volunteer (Multiple Races)

June 6, 2026

Details

Help cheer on runners and guide them along the course during all three races. Volunteers in this role will be stationed at an assigned location and may see participants pass through multiple times as different races come through.

Responsibilities include cheering and encouraging participants, directing runners at turns or course splits, and assisting with light traffic control as needed. Training, signage, and clear instructions will be provided.

This role is ideal for volunteers who are available for the full morning and are comfortable staying at one location through the final runners.

Location

Exact location and instructions will be provided prior to race day.

Course Cheer & Direction Volunteer (10K Only)

June 6, 2026

Details

Support runners along sections of the course used exclusively by the 10K. Volunteers will cheer, direct participants at key turns, and help ensure runners stay on course.

Some locations may require assisting with light traffic control. All volunteers will receive signage, instructions, and support on race morning.

This role is a great fit for volunteers who prefer an early-morning assignment and want to support the longest race.

Location

Exact location and instructions will be provided prior to race day.

Course Cheer & Direction Volunteer (5K Only)

June 6, 2026

Details

Cheer and guide participants along sections of the course unique to the 5K route. Volunteers will be assigned to a specific location and help direct runners while providing encouragement along the way.

Some locations may involve light traffic interaction. Training and signage will be provided.

This is a great option for volunteers who want a shorter time commitment while still playing a key role in race safety and runner experience.

Location

Exact location and instructions will be provided prior to race day.

Course Cheer & Direction Volunteer (One Mile Only)

June 6, 2026

Details

Support participants in the one-mile race by cheering and directing runners along the course. Volunteers will be stationed at locations specific to the one-mile route.

This role is ideal for volunteers who prefer a later start time or are unable to volunteer earlier in the morning.

Location

Exact location and instructions will be provided prior to race day.

Course Set-Up and Tear Down

Event Set-Up High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Help us get race day ready! This role supports registration setup, finish line preparation, tent setup, and the Kids Zone to ensure a smooth and welcoming experience for all participants.

Volunteers will assist with unloading supplies, setting up tables and tents using provided maps, transporting materials (including water, snacks, medals, and ice), and helping where needed as the event comes together. The John Deere Gator will be available for moving heavier items. Tasks may shift throughout the morning, so flexibility is key.

All supplies, maps, and instructions will be provided on site. This is a great role for volunteers who enjoy staying active and helping behind the scenes.

Event Tear Down High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Help wrap up race day by assisting with event breakdown, sign removal, and loading materials for transport. This role is active and hands-on and is essential to closing out the event smoothly and efficiently.

Key Duties Include:
- Loading registration materials and supplies onto the event van
- Removing course and stadium signage
- Assisting with Kids Zone and finish line breakdown
- Packing tents, medals, refreshments, and equipment
- Helping unload supplies at the off-site storage location

Volunteers should be comfortable lifting, moving equipment, and working as part of a team.

Location

O’Brien Stadium

Sign Set Up 10K High Priority

June 5, 2026

Details

You will place directional and informational signs along the 10K race route on Friday, 6/5/26 during your regular workday. We’ll provide all materials—including signs, sign stakes, spray chalk paint, John Deere Gators, and a map with approximate sign and arrow locations. This role is perfect for volunteers who enjoy being outdoors and helping ensure a smooth, safe race experience for participants.

Location

Your station will be following the 10K race route.

Sign Set Up 5K High Priority

June 5, 2026

Details

You will place directional and informational signs along the 5K race route on Friday, 6/5/26 during your regular workday. We’ll provide all materials—including signs, sign stakes, spray chalk paint, John Deere Gators, and a map with approximate sign and arrow locations. This role is perfect for volunteers who enjoy being outdoors and helping ensure a smooth, safe race experience for participants.

Location

Your station will be following the 5K race route.

Sign Set Up 1 Mile High Priority

June 5, 2026

Details

You will place directional and informational signs along the 5K race route on Friday, 6/5/26 during your regular workday. We’ll provide all materials—including signs, sign stakes, spray chalk paint, John Deere Gators, and a map with approximate sign and arrow locations. This role is perfect for volunteers who enjoy being outdoors and helping ensure a smooth, safe race experience for participants.

Location

Your station will be following the One Mile race route.

Kids Zone

Kids Zone Face Painting High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Help bring extra fun and color to the Kids Zone by providing face painting for children. This role is creative, interactive, and focused on creating a positive experience while encouraging families to explore all Kids Zone activities.

Key Duties Include:
- Setting up and managing a face painting station
- Painting children’s faces in a fun, safe, and organized way
- Encouraging kids and families to enjoy other Kids Zone attractions

Location

O’Brien Stadium

Kids Zone Float Medium Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Support the Kids Zone by floating between activities, checking in on other volunteers, and helping ensure a safe, fun, and organized experience for children and families. This role is proactive, flexible, and essential to keeping the Kids Zone running smoothly.

Key Duties Include:
- Assisting Kids Zone volunteers as needed
- Helping manage safety, organization, and flow
- Encouraging participation in Kids Zone activities and photo opportunities
- Supporting cleanup and transitions between activities

Location

O'Brien Stadium

Kids Zone Kick Start Medium Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Support the KickStart car area in the Kids Zone by helping children and families engage with games, play safely, and enjoy one of the most popular attractions at the event.

Key Duties Include:
- Assisting children with games around the KickStart car
- Encouraging safe, fair play and turn-taking
- Keeping the area organized and welcoming
- Supporting Kids Zone transitions and closing procedures

Location

O'Brien Stadium

Kids Zone Games Medium Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Help create a fun, safe, and organized Kids Zone by assisting with games and activities. Games Volunteers support children and families, encourage participation, and help keep the Kids Zone running smoothly.

Key Duties Include:
- Assisting children with Kids Zone games
- Encouraging safe play and turn-taking
- Keeping game areas organized and clean
- Promoting other Kids Zone activities and events

Location

O'Brien Stadium

Kids Zone Inflatables Medium Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Help children safely enjoy the inflatables in the Kids Zone by monitoring play, managing crowd flow, and ensuring equipment is used properly. This role focuses on safety, organization, and fun.

Key Duties Include:
- Supervising children using inflatables
- Managing crowd size and turn-taking
- Ensuring inflatables are used safely and appropriately
- Encouraging participation in Kids Zone transitions and activities

Location

O'Brien Stadium

Lead and Follow Vehicles

5K Follow Vehicle High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Support 5K participants by following behind the final runner to ensure safety, assist anyone who needs help, and signal to course volunteers when the route is clear. This role is essential for participant safety and smooth course operations.

Key Duties Include:
- Following the final 5K participant
- Monitoring course safety
- Assisting participants if needed
- Communicating with race staff during emergencies

Location

Start/Finish line at O’Brien Stadium

5K Lead Vehicle High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Help guide 5K participants safely along the course by leading the race at a steady pace and ensuring runners stay on the correct route. This role is key to smooth race flow and clear course navigation.

Key Duties Include:
- Leading the 5K race ahead of participants
- Guiding runners along the marked course
- Monitoring course flow and safety
- Communicating with race staff as needed

Location

Start/Finish line at O’Brien Stadium

10K Follow Vehicle High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Serve as the official follow vehicle for the 10K race. This role ensures participant safety, signals the end of the race for course volunteers, and provides assistance to runners if needed.

Key Duties Include:
- Following behind the final 10K participant
- Providing on-course assistance when needed
- Communicating with race staff or EMS if a medical issue arises
- Confirming when course volunteers may clear their stations

Location

Start/Finish line at O’Brien Stadium

10K Lead Vehicle High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Serve as the official lead vehicle for the 10K race. This role guides runners along the correct course and sets a steady, visible pace at the front of the race.

Key Duties Include:
- Leading the 10K race at a steady pace
- Clearly guiding runners along the marked route
- Ensuring runners stay on the correct course
- Supporting safe navigation on overlapping routes

Location

Start/Finish line at O’Brien Stadium

One Mile Lead Vehicle High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Serve as the official lead vehicle for the 1-Mile race. This role helps guide participants along the correct route and sets a steady, safe pace at the front of the race.

Key Duties Include:
- Leading the 1-Mile race at a steady pace
- Guiding participants along the marked course
- Ensuring runners stay on the correct route
- Supporting safe navigation on an overlapping course

Location

Start/Finish line at O’Brien Stadium

One Mile Follow Vehicle High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Serve as the official follow vehicle for the 1-Mile race. This role ensures participant safety, signals the end of the race for course volunteers, and provides assistance to participants if needed.

Key Duties Include:
- Driving behind the last 1-Mile participant
- Supporting runners who need assistance
- Communicating with race staff if medical help is required
- Ensuring course volunteers know when the race has fully passed

Location

Start/Finish line at O’Brien Stadium

Mascots

Billy the Panther High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Bring the energy and excitement to race day as Billy the Panther! This role focuses on engaging participants, cheering runners, and creating memorable moments for families throughout the event.

Key Duties Include:
- Wearing the Billy the Panther mascot costume
- Interacting with participants and families
- Taking photos throughout the event area
- Cheering runners at the finish line and special events

An assistant will be with you at all times to help guide and ensure your safety.

Location

O’Brien Stadium

Billy the Panther's Assistant High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Accompany Billy the Panther throughout the event to ensure his safety, assist with navigation, and help create a fun, positive experience for participants and families. This role is active, interactive, and great for outgoing volunteers.

Key Duties Include:
- Assisting Billy with navigation and safety
- Helping facilitate photos and interactions
- Acting as Billy’s voice when needed
- Cheering on participants during special events

Location

O’Brien Stadium

Pre-Registration and Registration Positions

Registration Greeter

June 6, 2026

This volunteer task is full.

Details

Serve as the first point of contact for participants entering the stadium. Registration Greeters welcome participants, answer basic questions, and direct them to the correct area for packet pick-up or race registration.

Key Duties Include:
- Greeting participants with a friendly, welcoming attitude
- Directing participants to packet pick-up or race registration
- Encouraging online registration via posted QR codes
- Answering general event questions

This role sets the tone for race day and helps keep registration running smoothly.

Location

O’Brien Stadium

Registration Packet Pick-Up High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Assist pre-registered participants with race packet pick-up on race morning. Volunteers help verify participant information, distribute packets, and ensure bib numbers are recorded accurately.

Key Duties Include:
- Assisting pre-registered participants at packet pick-up
- Verifying participant name, race, and shirt size
- Distributing race packets and explaining contents
- Recording assigned bib numbers for data entry

Volunteers will receive instructions and support on race day. Friendly communication and attention to detail are important for this role.

Location

O’Brien Stadium

Tent Positions

Award Tent High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Assist with race results and awards for the 5K and 10K chip-timed races. Volunteers in the Awards Tent help participants check their results and distribute medallions to eligible winners using the race results system.

Key Duties Include:
- Checking participant results using a provided laptop
- Confirming award eligibility for 5K and 10K runners
- Distributing medallions to award winners
- Assisting participants with basic questions about results

Volunteers will receive instructions and support on race morning. No prior experience with race timing systems is required.

Location

O’Brien Stadium

Toddler Trot and Diaper Dash

Toddler Trot and Diaper Dash

June 6, 2026

Details

Help run the Toddler Trot and Diaper Dash by assisting with participant organization, finish line setup, and prize distribution. This role supports our youngest racers and helps create a fun, memorable experience for families.

Key Duties Include:
- Assisting with participant count and organization
- Helping set up the finish line streamer
- Supporting winner selection and prize distribution
- Ensuring every participant receives a prize

Patience, energy, and a friendly attitude are key for this role!

Location

The 50-yard line inside O’Brien Stadium

Water Stations

4th Street Water Station High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Help keep runners hydrated and supported along the course during the 5K and 10K races. This role also helps ensure a safe and smooth flow of participants on a course with overlapping routes.

Key Duties Include:
- Filling and staging water cups from provided water jugs
- Offering water to runners safely and efficiently
- Keeping the water station area clean and clear
- Encouraging runners and providing basic directions if asked

Volunteers will receive instructions and a brief role-specific huddle on race morning before heading to their station.

Location

Intersection of 4th Street and the entrance to EIU’s Parking Lot W, across from EIU’s Taylor Hall. This is the only water station on 4th Street. Refer to your race map for specific details

8th Street Water Station High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Help keep runners hydrated and supported along the course during the 5K and 10K races. This role also helps ensure a safe and smooth flow of participants on a course with overlapping routes.

Key Duties Include:
- Filling and staging water cups from provided water jugs
- Offering water to runners safely and efficiently
- Keeping the water station area clean and clear
- Encouraging runners and providing basic directions if asked

Volunteers will receive instructions and a brief role-specific huddle on race morning before heading to their station.

Location

Near the corner of 8th Street and Wilson Avenue. This is the only water station on 8th Street. Refer to your race map for specific details.

Woodlawn Drive Water Station High Priority

June 6, 2026

Details

Support runners along the 10K course by helping keep them hydrated and safe at a designated water station. This station serves 10K participants only and is located along a longer, more remote portion of the course.

Key Duties Include:
- Filling and staging water cups from provided water jugs
- Offering water safely to 10K runners as they pass
- Keeping the water station area clean and clear
- Encouraging runners and providing basic directions if needed

Volunteers will receive instructions and a brief role-specific huddle on race morning before heading to their station.

Location

On Woodlawn Drive, in front of the former Vineyard Church. This will be the only water station on Woodlawn Drive. Please refer to your race map for specific details.

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