Community, camaraderie and encouragement are at the heart of the Alpine Loop Gran Fondo. And just like riders, volunteer participants are a big part of this event!
From pre-event preparations, to day-of excitement and after-party celebrations, volunteers have many special talents to share and roles to fill. Many roles are skill-specific and filled by area experts, but others are open for anyone who’s willing to join in and lend a hand.
Following are ways you can help:
Rest Stations are important stops along the Alpine Loop, Shenandoah Mountain Adventure, Shenandoah Mountain Century, Mt Solon Metric Century and Valley View Challenge routes; providing riders with food and drink, minor mechanical assistance and parts. But when the ride is complete, what cyclists remember most about the Rest Stations are the incredible support and enthusiast encouragement provided by the Volunteers. Sign up to assist at a Rest Station.
Volunteers are welcome to drive their personal vehicles along the route assist at Rest Stations, where you can also cheer for the riders who are special to you. Spectator/drivers are not allowed to follow individual riders along the course; instead select a spectating location or Rest Station where you can connect with your special person on the course. Volunteers who drive a vehicle capable of carrying bicycles are asked to check in with the Rest Station Manager before departing, in case a cyclist needs to be returned to the Finish Line Festival.
Course Marshals will be stationed at intersections and other locations along the routes to direct and caution cyclists. Some of these tasks (downtown course marshals) can be handled by cyclists who will also participate in the event – often in exchange for a discounted entry fee. You can learn more about the duties of a Road Marshal or sign up to volunteer as a Course Marshal. (Positions have been filled)
Registration Volunteers are needed in the days leading up to the event, and event day. These roles are often filled by riders who will participate in the Alpine Loop Gran Fondo – often in exchange for a discounted entry. Sign up to serve as a Registration Volunteer on Saturday, Sept. 30, (positions have been filled) or sign up to serve as a Registration Volunteer on Sunday, Oct. 1.
Venue Setup / Festival Volunteers get to experience the amazing transformation of the Turner Pavilion into the setting for the Finish Line Festival. In just 2 hours, this great team of helpers sets up the Finish Line, readies tables and chairs, decorates the Pavilion, unveils the finisher medals and Swiss Bells, and places the bike racks – all in anticipation of the day’s cycling finishers. Throughout the day, other volunteers can help maintain the venue, distribute KOM jerseys, and assist with breakdown. Sign up to serve as a Venue Volunteer.
Volunteers will receive an event t-shirt (after the event start on Oct.1, and as available sizing allows).