A Day In The Lakes

21 APR2011

Running enthusiasts who fancy a day in the Lake District might be tempted by the call to arms from the organisers of the Brathay Windermere Marathon. The high profile event is now an established fundraiser for the Brathay Trust but, with over 1,000 runners set to start the marathon, organisers need extra volunteers on race day - Sunday, May 22.

Race Director Scott Umpleby, is keen to give competitors and spectators the best experience possible. Scott said: "This is arguably one of the most scenic and challenging marathons in Europe with runners having to complete a gruelling 26.2 mile course that is defined by its undulating nature. Because of this we always try to ensure that we have enough volunteers to cater for the runners' every need."

Paramount to the success of the event, as a spectacle, is the number of course marshals in attendance on the day. Their task will be to guide the runners, whilst warning the public, so that the two do not come into conflict with each other. This ensures the wellbeing of the runners, spectators and general public alike. There will also be regular refreshment stations offering sports drinks and bottled water positioned around the course to keep runners hydrated throughout the day.

Scott Umpleby would like to hear from anyone interested in volunteering as either a course or refreshment station marshal. He said: "We're looking for adults aged 18+ who are physically fit for the role and they have the ability to be polite and considerate at all times. Volunteers have to be aware that when runners are particularly fatigued they can become very emotional.

"All volunteers will receive training including information about the marathon route, use of radios and emergency procedures. Our regular volunteers tell us that they get a great deal of satisfaction from the day and they feel that they make a genuine contribution to a superb day in the Cumbrian sporting calendar."

For further details visit the event website.