City Editor Ivan from SATXtoday (sister publication of ATXtoday) here. While I'm no stranger to the running world, I’ve never had the opportunity to volunteer for a race. So, I decided to lace up and see what a race day was like from behind the barricades. Here’s how it works + why you should Try This.

What we tried (with pricing):

I attended the Run the Alamo 13.1 + Marathon, which took place in downtown San Antonio on Sun., March 6. Before heading out, I knew to arrive early, expecting plenty of road closures + detours around race areas. If you’re volunteering for a race, research this info ahead of time so you don’t run into any trouble on race day.

I was able to snag a parking space at the Martinez Lot at Zone 78075 for $0.50/hour. Pro tip: Cities like San Antonio and Austin have mobile parking apps (SAPark + ParkATX) to help you navigate the correct areas to park.

Fun fact: It’s free to volunteer. You might be asking, “What do volunteers actually do during a race?” Well, they support event organizers, like Athlete Guild, by assisting racers with last-minute registration in the morning, cheering on participants, and handing out water, snacks, and celebratory beer at the finish line.

What not to miss:

There are plenty of opportunities for volunteers of all ages. | Photo by @SATXtoday team

There’s nothing like being surrounded by a community of athletes cheering each other on. Make sure to take time to check out the creativity amongst support signs. One in particular that made me laugh read, “I love your stamina — call me.”

What we’re still talking about:

Head out to a race soon — you might just meet a friend. | Photo by @SATXtoday team

Only on race days can you expect to be high-fived by a total stranger. Whether you’re volunteering or participating, you can’t help but feel like you’re surrounded by friends. In fact, I even met two readers of SATX.

How you can experience this:

Enjoy a well-deserved brewski after running 230 football fields. | Photo by @SATXtoday team

Athlete Guild has several upcoming events for both runners and those who wish to volunteer:

2022 Chicken Run & Farm Yoga | Sat., March 26 | Castroville
Dash to the VTO | Sat., March 26 | San Antonio
Roar and Run Annual Lion’s 5K | Sat., April 2 | New Braunfels
Got Your Back 5K | Sun., April 3 | San Marcos
Burnet Bluebonnet 5K/10K, Senior 2K and Kids Fun Run | Sat., April 9 | Burnet
Shake, Rattle, Run/Walk with your Canine | Sat., April 9 | New Braunfels
Run for the Future 5K | Sat., April 23 | New Braunfels | Bulverde
Run with Purpose | Sat., April 30 | New Braunfels
23rd Annual Run for the Hills | Sat., May 7 | Bulverde
Texas Long Run 5K and Road Mile Challenge | Sat., May 14 | New Braunfels
Front Porch Days Half Marathon/10K/5K/3K/1K | Sat., May 2 | Kyle
Dos Rios 5K Splash and Dash | Sat., June 18 | New Braunfels
Stars and Stripes Half Marathon and 5K/10K | Sat., July 23 | New Braunfels

“Fight to the Finish” — words to live by. | Photo by @SATXtoday team

Things to know if you go:

Experience: Volunteer for a local race
Price: Free to volunteer; participant registration prices vary
Website: https://www.athleteguild.com/event
Address: San Antonio, Austin + surrounding areas in South Central Texas
Hours: Mornings, typically beginning around 8 a.m.
Social: Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube*