Every year, elite runners around the state, country and world flock to Clarksburg for the Greater Clarksburg 10K run. What most people don't know is that it takes about 200 volunteers to make the race run as effectively as its participants.
For this year's race, July 28, about that same number will be needed again, race director Buddy Axton said. Although the race is getting more exposure, it's at the same time harder to get volunteers to work it.
"The race has gotten bigger, but more people are watching the race and not volunteering," Axton said. "When the race first started, we had no problem. But now that we've gone into the (fifth) year, interest is waning, because it's kind of old hat."
Volunteers are needed for help with the finish line, including handing out towels, water bottles and fruit to those who cross. But the biggest need for help comes out on the course itself, monitoring traffic on the sidestreets so the runners can continue safely.
Axton said he's targeting youth groups such as a high school Key Club or other organizations or groups and would like to get the volunteer number back up to 200 for this year.
"With anything of this magnitude, you have to have some help from people behind the scenes," he said.
Those interested in volunteering for the race can contact Axton at 622-1461. There's no deadline, but the sooner volunteers can be secured, the better, he said.
Sports writer Rob Peirce can be reached at 626-1444 or by e-mail at sports@exponent-telegram.com.
