Race4Life put together a team of 10 volunteers for the Targa South Island event. This super charged team followed the event from Monday 22nd October in Invercargill, to where the Rally finally finished, 6 days later at Steamer Wharf in Queenstown. The commitment to the cause was simply extraordinary.
Each morning the team rose early having been allocated certain tasks throughout the day. Distributing water and special treats to each of the drivers and their navigators was par with the course, along with some friendly banter. With large distances to be covered in this event, a crew of 4-5 would leave straight after the drivers, in order to get to the designated lunch spot in time to meet the drivers and their crews. Lunchtime was an opportunity to speak with the all concerned, distribute more treats and to sell tickets to any of the three raffles that were available. Meantime the rest of the team were setting up camp for the night organising meals and domestic bits and pieces.
On occasions during this event there was a need for extra marshals on the course, due to the fact that a few community volunteers had to pull out at the last moment. For health and safety reasons, without marshals the stages need to be closed. Race4Life put their hands up on two occasions to cover marshalling duties. On one of these occasions the volunteers concerned were fulfilling their marshalling responsibility from 10.30am, returning eventually to our accommodation at 9.30pm.
The team made the best of every situation, cheering on the drivers whenever the opportunity arose. From dressing up in ridiculous animal costumes, to giving out a most welcome beer at the finish line, this team of amazing people did us proud. Energy levels were surprisingly high amidst very little sleep. The enthusiasm for our wonderful cause and the strong need to thank all the teams for the support they showed Race4Life, was at the heart of it all.
During the course of the event we had many drivers share their stories with us. Their kindness and compassion for our cause was evident in the respect they showed whenever we had an opportunity to share our wish stories. And of course our overall fundraising total of $30,000, said it all.
To our simply fantastic volunteers we say a huge THANK YOU to each and every one of you, for giving of your time and energy for 7 days. In doing so you made it possible for the Trust to raise funds, and our profile, in the southern regions of our beautiful country!
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