Back in 2014 I was a volunteer first aider at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, it was such an amazing experience I decided that volunteering at the World Athletics Championships would definitely be a fabulous thing.
One of my goals when applying to do the Commonwealth Games was to rub Usain Bolt’s leg if he ever got injured or just to relieve a little cramp. But alas I didn’t achieve this as my shifts were at the opening ceremony and the rugby sevens. So this time I was determined to get just a little closer to the great man.
My plans were scuppered a bit by being posted to the first aid station by the media centre and the warm up area for the field athletes. But as the dedicated first aider that I am, I needed to patrol the whole area fully, which included the warm up track to get supplies for our station that we lovingly called the prison. Mission accomplished! …. well I didn’t actually lay my hands on him, but I did see him warming up on the track looking incredibly cool. On a daily basis we were told not to stand around taking photos of the athletes, as I rarely do as I’m told I got quite a few photos of Usain, including one of him coming out of the portaloo just before he ran the 100 metres semi final.
Also while on patrol with my fellow first aiders I saw Mo Farah win the 5000 metres and the 100 metres semi final and final, the atmosphere was electric.
As always I met the most amazing people and made some new friends. Looking after the athletes and spectators was a joy to do.
But the fabulous thing about volunteering this time was staying with my lovely cousin Amelia and her family in Reading. She very kindly put me up for 2 weeks and even ferried me to and from the train station at very unsocial hours. During my time off I caught up with my extended familam and get out and about in Berkshire.
Carole Gardiner
back to life 