I volunteered on a whim two years ago. I live on the Outer Banks and saw a post looking for volunteers. I have never raced, in fact don’t even run at all. Are you kidding me?
I knew nothing about races or racing. But I was willing to volunteer.
I volunteered at an aid station at Eckner St. in Kitty Hawk. The morning started slow and I was there with one other volunteer who was certainly more experienced than I was, thankfully. She was able to get times, and I was the cheerleader and passed out what I could. We were a limited station but if people really seemed like they had a need, I had things in my car and pulled them out! I started talking to these racers, learning about them and trying to support and encourage them, especially if they were running without a support system. This was actually fun!!!
The sun was beating and as the morning went on, it was hot!
These racers were so appreciative of this person, me, no racing knowledge AT ALL, just doing the best I could to support them in any way I could.I was rewarded ten fold by them!
I left there feeling the gratitude of complete strangers and made a few friends! Race Ambassador Luke and I are the prime example.
Last year (2024), I dragged my husband along and told him, “This volunteer experience will leave you feeling so appreciated!” We volunteered at two aid stations. We were in Duck early on and on the other side of the bridge at the turn around! As it became dark, the weather got worse. We just kept singing and cheering but my heart sunk thinking of everyone having to go back across the bridge.
We had met a pediatrician from NY and she asked if she could come in the U Haul with us. We pulled her up and got her warm and gave her a break. She was alone; her husband and children had stayed home. I contacted her the next day and she made it to mile 70 before hypothermia set in. We had talked several times that day. I make these bonds. I try to find something in common with the racers. I am a nurse and had worked in pediatrics so we found our comfort level.
At the end of the race, my husband and I rode up to the finish line. We were so excited to see the last racer, sweet James from Yorktown VA, as he crossed the line. James had a great support system but we still had such a good time with him at the bridge! We hugged him and I left with big ole tears in my eyes!!
I love volunteering for this race! These racers have such a piece of my heart! I would encourage anyone to volunteer for just a few hours.
Luke and I see each other once a year, at the race, but we communicate all year long. Our common bond started with hockey and me being from Pittsburgh originally. His daughter plays hockey and the Pittsburgh Penguins are one of her favorite teams! This race created a bond and friendship that I value immensely!
Each year gives me the opportunity to meet and make new friends 🙂
With appreciation,
Lois Longo
Kill Devil Hills, NC
Want to join Lois and the rest of the Blackbeard’s Revenge 100 volunteer crew on the Outer Banks on March 22-23, 2025? Â Learn more and register here:
