Handing out drinks and food might seem like a small gesture, but for athletes in Ironman Australia it can make all the difference between a good race or an average one.
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Students from Hastings Secondary College gave friendly smiles and shouted out words of support as they handed out the items to participants, as they ran past the station at Town Beach.
Organiser Ben Johnston said there were 170 students and staff who would work across four shifts between 7.30am and 11.15pm.
He estimated the students would hand out thousands of litres of drinks and said there were hundreds of bananas and watermelons.
Ben said it was a great way for students to get out and be active in their community.
“It’s fantastic for them to put on their curriculum vitae and to be out networking with people from the community,” he said.
“You never know who you might meet in the future who can help with employment opportunities.”
Ben competed in the Ironman Australia event three years ago and he said he knows what it’s like to rely on volunteers for support.
“Getting that food and drink is extremely valuable throughout the race,” he said.
Year 7 student Keera started her four hour shift at 11.30am and said it was amazing to see the athletes as they ran past.
She said it was her first time volunteering and she enjoyed the experience.
Keera said all the athletes were very grateful when they received the water she handed out to them.
