On November 30, thousands of runners ran through the streets and trails of Seattle at the UW Medicine Seattle Marathon and Half Marathon. More than a hundred medical volunteers from UW Medicine were helping to keep them safe. Thank you to all the healthcare professionals, students, and staff who volunteered your time, expertise, and dedication to make the event safe and successful for nearly 9,000 runners and walkers.
Among the over 100 medical volunteers supporting the race, were 30 from the Department of Rehabilitation:
- Five faculty
- Four administrators and admin staff
- Two fellows
- Six residents
- 12 DPT students
- One visiting medical student
Dr. Mark Harrast, professor in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and longtime medical director of the Seattle Marathon, shared his appreciation: “A huge thank you to all for taking time out of your holiday weekend to brave the cold and help make the marathon a safe and enjoyable experience for the runners! It is a mammoth endeavor to provide care on such a large race course spread throughout the city, but you all helped make this a manageable undertaking.”
The medical team handled about 375 runner contacts, most of them quick stops for muscle cramps, minor sprains, blisters, and dehydration. Volunteers also managed cases of hypothermia and one ankle fracture. This year’s new finish line at Pier 66 added challenges, but thanks to your flexibility and teamwork, the day went smoothly.
We are proud of our department’s strong presence at this community event. Thank you for giving your time over the holiday weekend to support the Seattle Marathon and its participants.
In photos:
- Medical volunteers get ready to help runners.
- Volunteers stand at a medical tent on course.
- Spectators wait to see runners pass on a beautiful day.
- A medical tent was ready at the finish line, in case any runners needed assistance.
- At the Runner's Expo over the weekend, a display offered information about our sports medicine team.
- The medical services were clearly marked in the finisher's area.
- Near the finish line, three volunteers smile for the camera.
- Runners waited in the dark for the race to start near the icon Space Needle.