What is it that motivates the vast number of unsung heroes who ensure our sport is so well managed and events run smoothly. Naturally the enjoyment of being outdoors, mixing with like minded people and giving something back to the sport and its competitors, marshals and referees is high on the list.
From the estimated 70,000 volunteers required for the Olympic/Paralympics Games to the 5 or 6 needed at a small community event, all are invaluable and in Triathlon this is no different. How great or little time given up; all is vital to the growth of the sport. With the sports amazing participation levels and increasing number of events the volunteer community is vital to the continued success. British Triathlon recognized the requirement and now has a full time Volunteer Officer in Sarah Williams, a keen athlete and devoted volunteer herself.
The formalizing of the role and recognition given to the volunteers is certainly helping the sports growth. Here are some of the volunteer roles:
- Event Preparation
- Registration Process
- Help Desk
- Race Briefing
- Marshalling
- Drinks
- Time Keeper
- Volunteer coordinator
- Club Treasurer
- Media Officer
- Vice Chair
- Club Secretary
- Club Vice Chair
- Talent Search coordinator
- Webmaster
- Club Chairperson
- Referee
- Coach
The British Triathlon website www.britishtriathlon.org has pages dedicated solely to volunteers, here you can find out how to get involved in volunteering, keep up to date with important issues concerning volunteers and hear about new initiatives which may be of interest to you and or your club. Should your event or club need any volunteers or a referee you can also send enquiries to mailto:sarahwilliams@britishtriathlon.org
The best way to keep in touch with the British Triathlon Federation is by registering as a British Triathlon Volunteer. By doing so you will receive information on relevant volunteering opportunities, including being the first to hear about our Corus Elite Series Corus Kids of Steel and National Championship Events, at which you can be a volunteer. You will also receive bi-monthly newsletters containing news, views and updates on volunteering, as well as being included in the draw each edition to win British Triathlon merchandise!
In registering, you are not obliged to do anything its just a way of keeping you informed of what is happening and letting you know what you could get involved in. We want to be able to support you in the work that you do and by registering with us we hope that we can begin to do this.
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