Volunteers needed for Redman Triathon Published Aug. 30, 2007 By By Senior Airman Zach Anderson 507th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE -- For most, the idea of a 2.4-mile swim followed immediately by a 112-mile bike ride capped off with a 26.2-mile run sounds less like a sporting event and more like a form of self-torture. Yet, that superhuman effort is exactly what will be attempted by athletes competing in the 3rd annual Redman Triathlon on Sept. 22 in Oklahoma City. While not everyone has the desire to actually take part in the race, there is one way to participate that doesn't require extreme physical exertion. Kyle Jansen, an air battle manager with the 552nd Training Squadron, is currently organizing volunteers to serve at a bike or run aid station during the triathlon. The volunteer opportunities are open to both active duty and reserve personnel. "I think it's important as a triathlete to give back once a year to the sport. I've volunteered at other local running events, but this will be my first major contribution to the sport. I am using my resources here on base because I think it's important to show the local community that the Air Force is glad to be here," said Jansen. Jansen said the importance of volunteers at this sort of event cannot be overstated. "Volunteers are what make an event like this happen," he said. "There is a great demand for volunteers to support the athletes on and off the course. The volunteers I'm seeking are for either a bike or run aid station." Those who have competed in the event in the past agree. "The volunteers are huge and there is so much they do to make a big race like this successful," said Capt. Robert Atkins, executive officer for the 507th Air Refueling Wing. Atkins, who won his age group in the 2005 Redman Triathlon (half distance), said volunteer support is vital for every athlete competing. "The most visible volunteers are the ones that run the aid stations," the captain said. "It's great to have the grapes, pretzels, Gatorade and bottled water. It also helps to see the people cheering you on. It makes you want to bike or run a little harder and keeps your energy up." Jansen said a strong Air Force volunteer effort can go a long way in projecting the image of Tinker to the local population. "Being here in the community, we should be proud to volunteer and serve with our fellow Americans," said Jansen. "I think the bond formed between the community and Air Force personnel is further solidified by working side by side in an event like this, similar to the Oklahoma City Marathon." Atkins agrees volunteering for the event is a good way to show Air Force support for the Oklahoma City area. "In 2005, I didn't notice any volunteers that I recognized as Air Force or any type of military group," Atkins said. "If there is an Air Force group there this year, it would be a good way to show that we support the community as much as they support us." While they may not be participating in the actual competition, Jansen says the volunteers themselves will definitely have a rewarding experience. "Volunteers at the aid stations will see determination, courage, charisma, strength, discipline and commitment," he said. "The athletes train for months for this one day. The volunteers will work as a team to provide support for the athletes as they make their way through the aid station. "It will be a long day and the weather may not cooperate but the rewards will be great." Volunteers are needed to work a run aid station from 10 a.m. to midnight or a bike aid station from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. "Volunteers can expect an eight to 12-hour day if there aren't many volunteering, but if I get 60 to 100 then I can split it up into shorter hours," said Jansen. Anyone interested in serving as a Tinker volunteer for the event can contact Jansen at kyle.jansen@tinker.af.mil or by phone at 734-4466.