Maybe in the BL News Email you have seen the request “Helpers Needed” for a BL event and wondered what would be involved…..
How would I know what to do?
You will always be given good instructions by the Event Organiser. It doesn’t matter if you haven’t been orienteering very long, or haven’t helped before, there will always be something suitable.
What sort of jobs might I be asked to do?
Here are some possibilities:
Car Parking – collecting parking fees and/or telling people where to park
Start – checking that competitors have cleared their dibbers, or making sure people on the same course don’t start at the same time
Road Crossings – encouraging people not to get run over
Collecting controls after the event – but this isn’t something that suits everyone so no one will be asked to do it unless they specifically volunteer.
Just let the organiser know if you have a preference.
Will I still be able to have a run?
Yes, definitely! Just enter the event as normal.
Do I need to arrive very early or stay very late?
It depends on your allotted job, but the organiser will find something that suits your needs. At a typical event most jobs last about an hour and a half.
Do I get a cheaper entry if I help?
Sometimes! At Saturday Local events you pay full price but at Cumbrian Galoppen Events and other Regional events, you will generally get a free run. Sometimes there is a special “helper code” to use in SI entries to get a free run, and sometimes the BL will just refund your entry fee after the event. The event organiser will be able to tell you.
Why would I want to help?
It can be fun.
It’s a good way for new members to get to know others in the club.
If you have aspirations to organise or plan events in the future it’s a good way to see behind the scenes.
Events are dependent on voluntary effort.
There are a few BL events coming up where quite a lot of help will be needed – look out for requests in the BL News Email.
Sunday 6th April – Cumbrian Galoppen at Burnbanks
Saturday 17th May – Knipe Scar near Bampton
Border Liners Orienteering Club 