To fully appreciate what I’m about to delve into, you need to know that the Walt Disney World Marathon started at 6 am. Runners had to be there by 4 am. I’m guessing that means that volunteers had to be there no later than 2 am.
Having been a marathon volunteer before, I know that there is a lot that goes into it. And the volunteers at the WDW Marathon were truly phenomenal. From medical staff to water stations to the folks handing out food/beverages at the end, every person I ran into was positive and inspirational. The water stand volunteers were great at cheering you on as you ran through; the medical staff knew how to walk the fine line of making sure you were physically okay while still encouraging you. Throughout the entire 26.2 miles, I was so very grateful for all of these individuals. They knew their jobs and were great at them (example: not 100 yards past the finish line, a volunteer noticed me limping, asked me what was going on, directed me to the medical tent and made sure I knew where to get ice… but made sure I got my medal first. Priorities, baby!).
The spectators continually amazed me. These people got up WAY before the crack of dawn to cheer on runners. And they certainly weren’t selfish with their praise – they cheered for all runners without prejudice! :) These folks had a marathon of their own to complete, because I saw many of the same people at multiple spectator points. The signs that these folks held were fantastic (“Frozen daquiris just ahead” was my personal favorite). There was a group of folks from Ft. Lauderdale dressed up in grass skirts playing crazy music at at least 5 different points along the course. They were dedicated cheerleaders!!
The marathon simply could not have been completed without these individuals. Seeing that many people out there to support the runners was overwhelming. As I ran into Magic Kingdom in the pre-dawn light, there were so many spectators on the side of the road, and so many well-wishes coming through, that I got teary-eyed. Obviously these folks weren’t there just to cheer me on, but the fact that they were out there to cheer someone on (and so many someones!) was really inspiring. These folks deserve a medal, or a race shirt, or something. They were great!!