How to Become an Official Starter

Last weekend's Insane Inflatable 5K attracted over 4,400 competitors over the two-day event.  The race was held at the New York State Fairgrounds just outside of Syracuse.  Kathy Whyte was one of the MC's for the event on Saturday and Bob Joseph and I were sharing those duties on Sunday.

In addition to MC duty I was assigned as an "official" starter for a number of waves of contestants who came through the gate and into the race's starting area.  Now, you may be wondering how you become an "official" starter.  What experience is necessary ?  How much training does it take ?  Can you perform under pressure ?

Well, there aren't many experienced "official" starters so it takes plenty of good fortune and of course being at the right place at the right time.  How much training ?  Oh, about one minute !  And the pressure part...well, yes, sometimes.

To officially start an Insane Inflatable 5K you have to be willing to climb to the top of the first giant inflatable in the race which is where the start line is.   Once there you must be able to address the runners gathering 50 feet below you.  You are given an "official starter" air horn which you use to cue the contestants to begin.

Another requirement official starters need to be able to do is count backwards from five down to one.  Then the payoff....you get to honk the air horn to start the race.  Since I always enjoyed making noise as a kid this was the best part !  And the most fun !!!