Calgary Marathon returns to in-person race after 28 months
Posted Sep 14, 2021 3:35 pm.
CALGARY — The Calgary Marathon is back!
After more than two years without an in-person event, the race will return this Sunday, Sept. 19.
Kirsten Fleming, the executive director of Run Calgary, says they could use some help setting up the event.
“The event typically requires 1,600 race-weekend volunteers, but we are not doing our typical expo,” Fleming says. “And because there are elements of the event that have been modified to make sure that it’s a safe experience for all, it does take a lot of people. We still are looking for about 180 volunteers.”
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Fleming says the event is not going to look and feel like the big show everyone has come to know and love other the years, she says this year’s race is going to be similar to the ones your grandad used to do.
“It’s really more of a grassroots feel,” Fleming says. “Focusing on the fundraising, the running and the walking — and making sure we get out in our community safely.”
Fleming says the event will not feature awards, entertainment, or a post-race massage. She says food will come pre-bagged, everything will be contactless where possible, and there will be zones where wearing a mask is required. The course however will be largely the same, Fleming says the route will slightly differ because of construction.
“Putting on an event of this size in typical circumstances is pretty difficult, so in these circumstances, I’m very proud of the work our team is doing,” Fleming says.
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She says the event still needs about 40 course marshalls — a position with a front-row seat to the race, and one that you can bring people in your household with you to — that will help guide racers along the correct path of the marathon.
“There’s also some jobs on park, at the finish line, at the start line, if you’re not scared of getting up early,” Fleming says. “Or if you’re running and you want to help the day before, we do need some help setting up on Saturday.”
Fleming says people who do show up to help volunteer will get a “nifty” t-shirt.
All information about volunteering at the Calgary Marathon can be found here.
