Cannock Soroptimists again volunteered at the annual Staffordshire Ironman 70.3 race and this year were involved in packing the bags given to all competitors and to those who marshal on the day. Club President June Bould and Soroptimist Carole Holdcroft spent a day bag packing; they worked hard but had a fun day and learned a lot about some of the work that goes on behind the scenes to prepare for an international event such as this.
Early on Sunday morning, 10th June, 4 members of Cannock Soroptimists – Carole Holdcroft, Jill Gooch, Maggie Shore and Olivia Lyons – were in position near to Chasewater to marshal the first part of the bike ride section of the race. The start was delayed slightly because of fog at Chasewater! Eventually the fog lifted and they were able to complete the 1.2 mile swim. The sun shone as the competitors began the 56 mile bike ride on their way to Shugborough where they then ran a half marathon!
All of the marshals thought it was a great experience being part of such an event, directing the riders and cheering them on. The competitors were so appreciative of the job all of the volunteer marshals do, shouting out their thanks or sharing a joke about the day and the weather.
The next club meeting at the Barns, Huntington, will be at 7.00pm on Tuesday July 10th when the speaker will be Pamela Wade, whose topic is Life in a Hospital Schoolroom.
Anyone wishing to come along can book in by emailing si.cannock@outlook.co.uk or by phoning 07971 494510.
Photos attached: Soroptimists Maggie Shore, Jill Gooch, Carole Holdcroft & Olivia Lyons at Chasewater prior to the race beginning.