As someone who does not like to get up early in the morning (I repeat, does NOT like to get up early), I had to wonder just what in the hell I was doing in Doylestown at 6:30 am on a Sunday morning. The sun was not even peeking over the horizon. After a sleepless night of listening to the neighbor's dog barking incessantly and the chirping of a dying fire alarm battery rousing me in the wee hours of pre-dawn, the alarm buzzed. I told myself if it was raining, I was going back to bed. I looked out the window and cringed. It was dry.
Being a woman of my word, I cursed myself for volunteering to help Big Al at Univest and got my self dressed. What was I thinking? When I got to Doylestown, I could already hear the clang of metal hitting the ground as the stages were being set up and speakers put in place for the days events. Of course, Big Al left me waiting a bit. I suppose he was being fashionable. I silently cursed him knowing I could have slept a little longer.
So I sat and enjoyed the last drops of coffee just in time to see this:
By the time Al arrived, the rain was coming down pretty hard. The weather was only calling for a passing shower. I think they got it wrong. The rain dropped for several hours, leaving us drenched to the bone while we set up poles, banners and signs, and whatever else needed doing. (Note to self; do not wear jeans in the rain. Very uncomfortable. And pack a raincoat! Trash bags are in no way becoming on a lady) After we finished hanging the last sign and everything was in place, I got snatched up by Terry, head mistress of volunteers and was asked to marshall the course.
Big Al...looking well rested:
Okay, so I had only planned to help set up the course and was eagerly looking forward to seeing 115 guys in Lycra go mach speed through the streets of Doylestown. Who am I to argue? I did get a dry t-shirt out of the deal, so I was happy. I took my post, still shivering from the wetness of my remaining clothes. I will tell you a little secret...the best way to watch a bike race is to course marshall. With flag and whistle in hand, no one was in my way. (Can you believe someone trusted me?) I had a front row seat to some great action and got put in a primo spot. The caterer from VIP brought me cookies and other treats (as if I need them) and I could see the start/finish line from my post.
I have volunteered and helped put on a few races in the past, but they were always local and low key. It is amazing to see what really goes on behind the scenes. John Eustice gets big, big props for putting on this 2 day event. Recently, I dreamed I was a "carnie" and realized it was really just a parallel to bike racing. It is a carnival...an extraordinary affair...that takes herculean effort from start to finish. To host a professional event takes a great deal of planning and many volunteers to execute. The next time you are at the start line or just spectating, take a look around and recognize what went into making the day happen. Even better, volunteer for a day. You won't be sorry.
The clearing of cars...You should know better.
Sound and stage set up....Done with a smile no less.
Putting up barriers:
