Volunteering in The Burden Run 2014 by MetConX

Mein and I have been running in races, trails and other running events since 2008. But we have not acted as a volunteer before (as those behind-the-scene people).

Us @ #theburdenrun2014

When MetConX announced that they are organising The Burden Run, I checked my schedule and found out that I may not be able to run due to work commitment. Therefore, I gave up signing up. Nearer to the date, I realised that I am available in the morning session. So, I registered to help them when they were looking for volunteers.

Many asked why didn’t I run. A simple answer. Because I want to try volunteering.

I’m really glad that I could contribute a little in this event. That’s because I am so close with the organising team especially with Dann, Ody, Tom, Wan and the other MetConX group.

The evening before the event day, we were required to attend a briefing in the stadium in UM. That was also the bib collection day for runners. During the briefing, Mein volunteered to be in the water station group while I in the marshall group. I will be based in the 3km spot. Excited!

Goodie bags for collection

The bib collection area

The event day has arrived. We met up with our respective team leaders in UM at and were stationed to our spots as early as 5am. That’s not early compared to those masterminds behind the whole event who have been there since the day before.

Mein joined her water station team whole I actually drove to the 3km spot with another fellow volunteer, Hidayat. Great to know someone who was as sincere and passionate. He just touched down in KL from his hometown in Perak and will be leaving back to Perak the same day! Salute.

Me @ 5am plus

Me after cheering the runners and cleaning up the street

The event started at 7am. My function there before flag off was to direct driving participants to the stadium direction. A few FAQs from the drivers were :

a) Is there parking near the starting line?

b) Is there surau for prayers?

c) Where is the loo? 🙂

Once flag-off, I waited anxiously for the first few runners. Who could that be? True enough, the first two runners are Kenyans. Cheered them and continued waiting for the second waves of runners.

Not long after, the following waves arrived. I kept cheering for them while reminding them to keep on their left as vehicles are diverted to use the right lane.

Saw many familiar faces and runner friends. I felt so touched to have so many friends who are still into running. To name a few; James Fong, Adam Heng, Lorrine, Melvin Chong, Letch, Lilian Lee, Shear Ling, Yam, Elgy Tan, Joe Liew, Advance Tan, Jonathan, Alvin Gan, Andrew Pang and Regina Ho.

Upon the arrival of the final wave, Hidayat and I quickly helped out to clean up the used cups thrown on the floor by runners. (So happen that the water station was very nearby).

This road was full of used cups before we cleaned it. Thank you, Hidayat for the help! Both of us did great! 🙂

Mein helped to clean up too! 🙂

And distributing water to runners…

Here is Jonathan with his burdens

Hidayat and I left the 3km spot and water station as our duty there has ended. I drove back to the stadium and helped Dann in diverting traffic in front of the stadium. There were big buses and other vehicles going from both directions and runners were running on the same road. Again, I met with so many old buddies whom had just completed the run. Well done, guys!

When the traffic and numbers of runners running reduced, we walked back to the stadium and I took this chance to catch up with my friends. I always like the feeling of having them around. This group of energetic and positive people. I love you all! 🙂

“Minum Milo anda jadi sihat dan kuat!”

Red Bull mini distributing Red Bull from Europe. (The girl emphasized that these were different from those from Thailand. But I didn’t notice the difference. Sorry!)

The last task was to transfer all the used sandbags into the big waste container at the back of the stadium. Everyone teamed up and formed a human caterpillar, transfering the bags from one end to another. Within seconds, mission accomplised. Good job and awesome teamwork. Thanks for the wonderful experience! And well done on the great success.

Dann – the mastermind behind #theburdenrun2014

Ody – The woman behind Dann. Love you guys! 🙂

Coach Faidz – Marshall team lead

Wan and Yantie – U guys are always so cheerful. What’s the secret?

Tom – Mr Muscle. His biceps just get bigger and bigger…

Johnson – Thanks for coordinating in looking for volunteers

Lorrine – Cheers to the Kinrara bunch!

Aida – Hugs and kisses. I miss your Raya delicacies

Yvonne Tan – She is my “finger” when it comes to group selfie. Wakakakaka!

Reggie – U are so grown up now. Such a lady. When we knew each other, Reggie was still a student. She’s already working now.

Colin – Never fail to make everyone laugh. Sometimes, very drama. Always like to have him around.

Joey – Getting stronger everyday! Looking great as always…