Over 2600 athletes will enter Mirror Lake on July 25th for the swim start of the 12th annual Ironman Lake Placid.
And over 3500 volunteers will be there to support and promote their successful finish.
As spectators, we can certainly appreciate the hard work and dedication that goes into training for, and finishing the grueling race that combines a 2.4 mile swim and a 112 mile bike followed by a full marathon.
But as residents of the region, we should have an even greater appreciation for the volunteers that ensure the success of the largest one-day annual event held here.
The statistics have changed over the last 12 years, and I just learned that over 2/3 of the Ironman Lake Placid volunteers are from OUTSIDE the region. That means that most are overnight visitors - effectively using up THEIR vacation time to support OUR community. That's huge.
Why do they do it? For the team t-shirt? No, they do it for themselves - to be part of something big. Many are just glad to have the opportunity to support an event that is so important to their beloved Lake Placid and the Adirondacks. It's an emotionally-charged, fast-paced, feel-good event; even when it rains. Some volunteers have supported the event since the beginning - making the trek to Lake Placid 11 years in a row just to "work" 4-, 8-, 12-hour (and in some cases longer) shifts.
This is not a new trend - volunteer vacations are popular. "Voluntourism" is a way for people to do something good while experiencing a destination. We're extremely fortunate to have a product worthy of these valuable visitors' efforts.
Who benefits? The destination - or more specifically, the residents of the region. The event generates an economic impact of about 9 million dollars for Essex County - a combination of multiple athlete pre-race visits and the activity during the days surrounding the race.
Aside from the direct economic benefits, the event keeps Lake Placid's name in the limelight through major worldwide media. The competition further promotes the healthy lifestyle we enjoy here, has positively influenced many local youth, and supports Lake Placid's brand as a world-renowned sports tourism destination. And of course, the swim, bike and run takes place across our Adirondack landscape - highlighting the backdrop for the outdoor activities that drive the largest percentage of visitors to the region.
Events are a valuable commodity. The Lake Placid Horse Shows, Can-Am hockey tournaments, rugby, lacrosse, the Lake Placid marathon and the Lake Placid Film Forum, for example, expose a diverse demographic to the destination, and increase visitation during traditionally slower periods. The "weatherproof" nature of these events makes them a powerful economic driver; no matter the meteorologic circumstances, attendees are guaranteed to be here for the planned dates.
The value of events merits their prioritization from a destination marketing perspective, and the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism/Lake Placid CVB dedicates a staff person to the cause.
As part of her responsibilities, Kathy Pfohl, director of community relations and events, oversees the entire Ironman Volunteer effort- no small feat. Kathy is responsible for a tiered management system, with over 80 volunteer captains who direct their respective "team" of volunteers.
In addition to our visiting volunteers, the region enjoys a tremendous resident volunteer base for a long list of events, committees, organizations, and more. This, along with a range of accommodations and venues makes us well-positioned to achieve a goal as a destination; to host a perfect blend of events, leisure travelers, sports tourism, meetings and conventions - increasingly scheduled outside traditional travel seasons - in order to become a true year-round destination.
In the immediate future, though, we hope that those not volunteering will come watch Ironman. The start is spectacular, and the finish line inspirational. Cheer on the athletes that have worked so hard, and don't forget to thank the volunteers for making it all possible!
-Kimberly Rielly, director of communications
NOTE: FYI, the publication "Getting around on Race Day" is now available online. CLICK HERE to access the PDF document.