I have been fortunate enough to see the race from these aspects, as well as from the role of a race director and course designer. It seems simplistic to say that once you have walked (or run) a mile in another’s shoes, you understand them better, but that is without a doubt the case here. I get why a course may have been directed one way rather than another. I know that it is only the extraordinarily rare soul who doesn’t actually wish to make the race an enjoyable experience for all.
So, in your next race, runners, look a volunteer directly in the eye and say: “Thank you for being out here.” And in your next effort, volunteers , I want you to reply: “My pleasure. Hope it is you putting the medal around my neck next time.”
