Parkrun volunteering - anyone done timekeeping or number checking?

[singleandlooking]

I wanted to volunteer this week as a marshal but they said they only need time keepers or number checkers. I’ve read about timekeeping and it seems stressful, having to click everyone through as they finish essentially confirming their time. Has anyone done it who can reassure me? Otherwise I may wimp out

I've done it and it was fine - bit mad when the first rush comes through but I coped well!

Its busy but fun. We have 2 or 3 timekeepers so there is always backup...

My son did it for DofE when he was 15 and 16, you'll be fine

Yes, I've done tinekeeping, and although it seems a bit daunting, there's two of you for a reason - it doesn't matter if you fluff as it's not all on you.

The number checker will get you to sing out the number you've clicked for a runner, to check that both time keepers are on the same number and that number matches the finish token number. If it doesn't tally, then number checker will direct someone to do an extra click, and/or the handler-out to drop one or more finish tokens unused to get it all back in line.

Remember - it's a run, not a race, it really does not matter if the timings are a bit out. The number checker will stop them getting very out.

I love timekeeping, it's my favourite role 😊

If you're not comfortable though, ask if they can add you next week instead. Certainly at our event the earlier you volunteer, the better choice of roles.

I've done timekeeping a number of times at juniors and once at 5k.

I tend to focus on the spot at the entrance to the funnel in front of me and click when it's passed. You tend to know when something's not right like a double click. The more accurate set of results will be uploaded and the person uploading can edit to make sure that things line up pretty closely to reality. So last time, TK1 double clicked the start so #1 was an impressive 00:00:35, but I added an extra runner during a 25 min clump. It was simpler to edit his #1 although we had a good idea where I added my extra runner.

It is much easier with the app than it was with the stopwatches.

I love timekeeping! I’ve always seen two (or more!) at busy parkruns, so it doesn’t all count on you if you’re nervous! Quite easy to iron out any issues during slower periods or when the numbers are being run through the system afterwards.

I think my least favourite role is handing out tokens. Sweaty hands and the occasional post-sprint puker

Did you do it, singleandlooking ?

How did it go?

I had a further email whilst I was deliberating, to say they had a timekeeper but were then short of marshals, so I got my original request after all

Timekeeping is now on the virtual volunteer app so you can have a practice with it at home (or stand in the park and click it at runners!). You just hit the button every time someone finishes.
Number checker is just writing down numbers from the timekeeper and finish tokens / finishers. Only thing is to take your reading glasses if you wear them (that’s caught a few folk out in the past!)