Guest post: Fueled by Fine Wine – from a volunteer

This recap was submitted by Run Oregon reader and Fueled by Fine Wine volunteer Katie Briggs. Feel free to Submit a Guest Post in the “Contact Us” tab if you want to get involved.   While I may not be able to comment on the course, with the exception of the emotions I felt for people when they rounded the corner to find mile 12 leading uphill, I can say the participants and volunteers were amazing. From the early morning arrival at 6am, to the last folks coming through at 11am, I can safely say that our station had a great time. We found a rhythm with amazing cheerleaders, people passing out drinks, and a dedicated pourer who was keeping our tables topped-up so waiting would never be an issue.

During the race we saw the gamut of runners: those with amazingly fresh legs, those who were excited to be on target, people who just wanted to be done, we saw tears and sore muscles, and people who were simply having a great time.

The best thing of all at our station: we could not even count the number of thank-you’s passed out by the participants.

Those who run longer distances know that the last few miles can provide a range of emotions, and quite possibly an inner dialogue about “how much you hate everything… or everyone!” The later aid-stations can be tricky sometimes because you might get eye-rolls, a glare when you tell someone they’re doing great, or just ignoring because people are “so over it.” However, the courtesy of the fueled participants were wonderful.

We had people stopping to tell us how the race was going, chat with us about why they’re doing the race, tell us about their friends, and one guy who said, “I just don’t know how much I can let my wife beat me by” as he was taking a quick rest and finding the spirit to get back in it.

I don’t know if I will ever find the wild-thorn in me to run this hilly race, but if I do I will be sure to continue the kindness that was given. If I don’t run the race? Well, I can tell you I’ll be back next year handing our your electrolytes… and maybe commenting on how much I like your outfit or joking about willing to accept tips.

Thanks so much to all those who ran.