The Runner is typically a volunteer, sometimes with no paddling or dragon boat experience. We require at least one Runner throughout the festival, although you may split the day into a morning and evening shift. Key qualifications:
- Run (or walk quickly) throughout the shift.
- Tall enough and able to post results (client should supply a board and tape/staple gun).
- Can plug in a USB key into an extension cable (if finish video viewing is desired at the festival).
- Show up 15 minutes before the shift starts.
That's it. Most people can be a runner.
The responsibilities of the Runner are:
- Take paper results to the announcer and post to the board.
- Stay quiet in the timing tent.
- Act professionally and keep information confidential.
There will be discussions about race results and advancements. - Run advancements to Dock Marshal, Land Marshal, Announcer, and Starter.
Runner should specifically ask for the lead and hand off the advancements. Otherwise, paper may get lost. - Optionally operate the manual backup stopwatch (if there are multiple runners).
What a Runner should bring:
- Good walking/running shoes. There is a lot of continual movement, so good footwear is important.
- Water/snacks (if not provided by festival).
- Sun and rain gear. Sunblock or a hat if hot. Also, possibly a sweater as the timing tent can get surprisingly cold even when paddlers are complaining about the heat.
- Chair, book, etc. If there is a delay, they may be sitting around for a while.