For some reason my friends think it's fun to run for miles just to get a medal at the end of 26.2 miles. I've been there, done that and think their just a little crazy, but I still want to support them. So I go to the races and cheer them on. I wasn't sure what to expect the first time I went to cheer on a friend and after several races I keep learning new ideas. This article should help make it a little easier for everyone else out there to cheer their Friends and Family to the finish line. Things You’ll Need:
Race Course Map
Map of the City or surronding area of the race
Good sense of direction
Cheerful attitude
Strong voice
Water or other beverages
Rain Gear
Hat and if needed Sunscreen
Posterboard (optional)
Funny outfit (optional)
So your "crazy" friends or family members are running in a race and you want to support them. First you need to make sure you have the information you need. Make sure you have the right race information, confirm with whoever your supporting, then find the race web site. Most race web sites will have Race Course information and maps available. Find out the route, what roads are closed, any local regulations on what you can take, etc.
Now that you have the map you have to figure out the best place for you to cheer on your runner. If it's a short race you may only be able to find one spot to cheer, but for a marathon you may able to see them 3-4 times depending on the course setup. It helps if you know the area if you don't I suggest driving it the night before especially if you are the runners transportation to and from the race.
On the map look for spots where the course loops. This gives you the opportunity to see your runner twice. Then look for places where there are main roads that will take you to the next location. Watch out for military bases, road's closed, etc.. It doesn't matter if there are a lot of people at your spot or no one the runners like both they just need to hear someone making noise. In order to plan this right find out how quickly the runner is planning to run, this will determine how far ahead you will have to go to see them again.
So you know where to go now just remember that could all change in a moment if there's an accident on a street or a runner ends up walking instead of running and the timing is thrown all off. Keep your race course map and your local map with you all the time so your prepared for changes. Besides someone will invariable ask you for directions so be the Good Samaritan and help them out.
You have a spot now, how are you going to cheer? If the runner knows your spot ahead of time they should be able find you, but if that's up in the air a bright outfit can make the difference. If your outgoing and love a good laugh dress up as something ridiculous; fora beach run a starfish, for St Patrick's day a leprechaun, etc. The more dressed up you are the more impact you'll make on the runners and the more inane your cheers can be.
If your not quite at that level take some time to think of some cheers before the race or as your driving there. Just remember to ask yourself if you would like it if someone yelled your cheer at you while your running. Standard cheers like "Good job runners", "Keep up the pace", "Way to push it", and "You can do it" are all good ones, but too make that special impact think outside the box. Say St. Patrick Day tell the runners "Beer and Music at the end", if it's still early "Come on, sun's coming up" or at the end of the race "Homestretch, keep pushing it."
Another way to cheer is to pick those people that stand out in the crowd of runners. Some will write their name on their shirt or bib if you see this shout out "Lets go, (their name)". Or if they are dressed up shout to them "Yeh, way to go funky hat". You'll also find some cheers work better in different parts of the race. Not many "professional" runners will be motivated by "Beer and Music at the end", but a lot of the hobby runners can't wait for it.
Things not to cheer to runners. Do not tell them they "You're almost done" especially if they have over 1 mile to run, they will not appreciate it. Do not give them information you are not 100% sure on. If you say 5 miles left and their is really 7 miles it can really mess up the runners game plan. In fact I don't recommend giving distances unless a runner specifically ask for it, let the race handle it.
If your cheering you're shouting a lot so have some liquids to refresh your throat with. Water is great and depending on the race and location you may able to add some more intoxicating drinks. Also remember to use the hat and sunscreen if it's hot. Your not much of support to your runner if you end up in the hospital or can only croak when they come by.
Don't forget to take their picture when they come. It helps if you have two people one can watch for the runner coming and the other can get the camera ready and take the picture. But keep cheering the other runners need the support. That picture will provide support after the race is over when your runner realizes how crazy they are.
A runner may ask you to take a few things they might want halfway through the race. This normally happens during marathons, just don't forget to bring it and have it ready to hand off when they come by. The last thing a runner wants to do is stop and have a 2 minute conversation.
If you have kids then make it a big project for week. Have them make posters, come up with cheers, make some snacks for watching the race. If their a little older have them help you map out where you're going to watch the race from.
Tips & Warnings
> If you aren't moving back and forth to see your runners take a lawn chair. It's hard standing all day in the sun.
> If allowed music can be a huge boost to all runners. And you can play the favorite song of your runner when they come by.
> Making a poster for your runner is fun for the kids and makes you easy to spot for the runner.
> Check the course out first hand not all maps are accurate.
> You may not be able to watch the race in all areas check the race web site to see.
> Drink lots of liquids and use sunscreen.
> If you're taking kids don't plan on seeing the racer too much they'll get bored and it's hard to move around with a lot of people.
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Contributor's Note
Just recently went through this with both friend and family running in some races. Whew it takes some work. I've done the Marine Corps Marathon and sworn never to run (if I can call it that) a marathon again. This just one of the many topics I write about including domaining, web sites, IT certifications, and Technology like Plasma TV's. Thanks for reading - MWLucas
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