Going the Distance at the New Jersey Marathon & Half Marathon Expo

On Friday, April 28 ^th, I had the chance to give something back by volunteering at the 21 ^st annual Novo Nordisk New Jersey Marathon & Half Marathon Expo, an event where runners pick up their race packets for the big event and can check out a variety of exhibitors showcasing the latest trends, designs and advances in running shoes and apparel.

When I arrived I was given my brightly colored volunteer t-shirt and was sent off to learn the process of handing out marathon bibs. As someone who’s been on the opposite end of this many times it was a nice opportunity to lend a hand in helping make the process as seamless as possible for these anxious runners. About 9,000 participants were expected to toe the start line that Sunday morning.  

I found the experience super gratifying and enjoyable. What I love about running is that it brings together people from all walks of life that just love the sport. Over the course of my volunteer hours I was lucky enough to talk about running with a few of the participants. I saw many couples picking up their bibs with their children in hand, or marathon pacers picking up their bibs and their brightly colored jerseys which identified themselves as part of the pace team.

I also took the opportunity to thank the pacers for what they do, which is helping hopeful runners ultimately reach their goal finish times – a super difficult job when you consider the packs of people who try to keep up in hopes that this designated person will lead you to your goal time, possibly even a PR (personal record). Get involved – the Novo Nordisk New Jersey Marathon & Half Marathon Expo relies on volunteers each year.

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