The Village of Pleasant Prairie and RecPlex are issuing a call for volunteers. Members of the community are needed as volunteers this summer to welcome and assist athletes at various sporting events. At the upcoming Pleasant Prairie Triathlon on June 21 and/or 22, 75 volunteers have already singed on, however an additional 75 are needed. Volunteer assignments at the triathlon can include working: at water stations, the information or registration tables; in transition for bike check-in or body marking; as a bag-stuffer (pre-race); as parking patrol; as a bike course, run course or intersection monitor; or in concessions.
“Triathlon volunteers often get caught up in the excitement of the event,” explained Erin Winch, the volunteer coordinator for the event. “They can sense the athletes’ apprehensions, excitement, successes and gratitude. Volunteers not only make these events possible, they make it an amazing experience all around. They’re ambassadors for the community.” Winch, who is also the Director of Therapeutic Recreation for the Village went on to explain how these same volunteers are also helping to support programs for people with special needs. “Because the Therapeutic Recreation Department coordinates volunteers for the triathlon, we receive a percentage of the proceeds back to support programs for our special needs clients. Volunteering helps in more ways than people may realize.”
The first Pleasant Prairie Triathlon took place in 2002, and this year marks the 13th year for the event. During 2014, approximately 40 of the participating athletes will be paratriathletes with Dare2Tri. A handful of elite athletes have competed in almost every Pleasant Prairie Triathlon since it was started. It takes 150 volunteers to help make the event run smoothly. Volunteers often make the race for athletes with their guidance, encouragement and smiles.
Those interested in other opportunities throughout the year are invited to consider volunteering for the: Family 5K on July 19; Junior Triathlon on August 9; Iron Girl Triathlon on August 10; the Mud Run on September 20; the Run with the Turkeys on November 22; or Breakfast with Santa on December 13. To learn more or to volunteer, call Erin at 262.925.6747 or email [email protected]. A volunteer application is also available as a PDF below.
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