Posted Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at 10:01pm

Volunteering at the Headwaters Rally

Headwaters this year is a non-spectating event, so if you want to check the action, you will have to work the event. This is, however, a cool way to spectate as you are actually part of the rally.

At its core, rally volunteering is about community. It’s about people coming together from all walks of life, united by their passion for speed, teamwork, and excitement. Whether you’re a motorsport enthusiast, a volunteer veteran, or a complete newcomer, there’s a place for you at a rally. And then there’s always the after-event party. So why not give it a go? You never know where it might take you. Here are some options:

The Heart of the Action at Marshal Points This is a good place to start if you’ve never worked a rally before. As a marshal volunteer, you’re the guardian of the rally course. You monitor the road or junction, ensuring drivers stay on course and spectators stay safe. Not only do you get to see the cars up close and personal, but often times you will have your own private spectator point. This is a great position for those that want to see racing action as cars pass by each minute. You also play a vital role in keeping the rally running smoothly. You’re the eyes and ears of the event, making sure all participants and fans have a thrilling and safe experience.

Start Line Adventures Picture this: roaring engines as their launch control takes over, excited faces, worried faces, and a contagious atmosphere of adventure. As a volunteer at a rally’s start line, you’re at the epicenter of it all. The crews at the front have done it all before, know what’s about to come and will banter and joke around. At the back, you’ll see the “what have I gotten myself into?” look. You’re the one who waves the flag and sets the competitors off on their high-octane journey. It’s an adrenaline rush like no other, giving you a front-row seat to the exhilarating world of motorsport.

The Emotional Rollercoaster of Finish Controls There’s nothing quite like the raw emotion that comes with crossing the finish line. As a volunteer at the rally’s finish control, you’ll be part of the team that welcomes exhausted and triumphant drivers, sharing in their victory and offering support after an intense race. The drama! You’ll see damaged cars, brakes on fire, and numerous other examples of things gone wrong. You’ll record the times, offer occasional damage observations, and keep the adrenaline pumping as competitors celebrate their achievements or bemoan their sorrows or mistakes. It’s an unforgettable experience that brings you closer to the rally community.