Yesterday I volunteered to serve as a course monitor (on my bicycle) at the Knoxville Marathon. From time to time I participate in similar cycling events and this is one way I can “give back” to the event volunteer community. Plus, it’s interesting watching people competing.
This year I was assigned to ride along with the five hand cyclists. Essentially I ended up serving as a “sweeper”–i.e, riding along with the last guy.
That turned out to be an older guy (50-something?) who claimed to be out of shape, but who did pretty well. He had to pause briefly on a some of the hills to catch his breath, but no longer than 10 seconds. He finished in under 3 hours.
I don’t know if I would last 10 miles on a hand cycle. They look like they require more arm strength than I have. Climbing hills is bad enough on a bicycle where you can use your body weight. Those look much tougher.
A few photos:
Starting at twilight
On the course
Finish line in Neyland Stadium
Stadium shots
Fortunately, I was off the course and en route to my car when the rains hit. I’m somewhat wimpy when it comes to wet cycling.
Overall, it looked like another great event. Kudos to everyone who made it possible.