Former runner Tim Morley enjoyed the pavements until a knee injury made it painful. Now he enjoys races without the running.
A runner for about 12 years, Morley suffered a fall and was forced to give it up. But in 2008, a friend had signed up as a volunteer for the Times Colonist’s 10K. He had agreed to watch over the baggage of the runners and asked Morley for a hand. It was just a simple matter of tending to the bags, outerwear and assorted supplies most runners carry but need to store while competing.
The following year, Morley was asked if he would care to volunteer again, this time as a course marshal. Since then, he has become a regular on the Victoria race circuits, working at the TC 10K in the spring and the Goodlife Fitness Victoria Marathon in the fall, the city’s première running events.
And the Saanich man always works as a course marshal, standing at crossroads, pointing runners in the right direction and manning barricades to stop vehicle traffic.
“Course marshals are very important,” said Morley. “And they are very much appreciated by the runners.”
“Invariably, when runners go by they will share their thanks and appreciation,” said the 59-year-old computer specialist, a father of two grown daughters.
On April 26, the 26th annual TC 10K will feature, along with its signature race and 1.5-kilometre family walk/run, a half marathon.
Well established as a highlight of the running year in Victoria, the event attracts runners of all types, from elite competitors to the casual jogger.
Louise Hodgson-Jones, race director for the half marathon and spokeswoman for the TC 10K, said the event is hugely reliant on volunteer effort. About 900 volunteers are normally signed up.
“We rely a lot on our volunteers and a lot of them come back year after year,” said Hodgson-Jones. “People do it because they want to help and some want to give back.”
But with the 10 kilometres of the title event and the 21.1 kilometres of the half marathon, volunteer course marshals are more important than ever. This year it’s estimated 250 to 260 course marshals will be required, and names are still being taken.
All that’s required, Morley said, is to be at least 16, have a reasonable command of spoken English, and have an ability to remain alert for a few hours. Orientation and instructions, such as the whereabouts of first-aid stations, and an identifying T-shirt, are all provided.
Social clubs or athletic teams or organizations are great course marshals because they are easily co-ordinated through a coach or leader. Teams can also earn a small honorarium for their service.
Morley said the only things a prospective course marshal might want to consider are a lawn chair, perhaps a book and an umbrella.
It’s mostly uneventful, save for the odd motorist who voices resentment over the interruption of their morning drive, said Morley.
“And you might want to make friends with the neighbour in the home in the area, just in case you need to use a washroom,” he said.
To volunteer with the TC 10K go online to tc10k.ca.
