DCT Marshall Race Report

By Mark McInerney

“Join a Triathlon Club!” they said. “Meet lot’s of new people!” they

said. “Help out at Dublin City Triathlon!” they said. “It will begreat fun!” they said.

And do you know what??? IT WAS!!!

Dublin City Triathlon was the first event I’ve been involved with at the ground level. It was amazing to see the dedication and enthusiasm
the Piranha veterans had for the event and it rubbed off very positively on newer members like myself. Mr John Wallnutt was an
exceptional commander-in-chief. He laid the plans, ensured there were back-up plans and let everyone know what was expected and required.

DCT is central to the club survival and contributes hugely to our members continued success. It provides necessary funds so that we can
swim/run/cycle in numerous coached sessions every week for the paltry sum of €5. It provides contributions to club gear so I can squeeze
into a trisuit and provide a clear answer to “Who ate all the pies??” And it showcases our club to hundreds of competitors every year. From
the slick website, to the informed posts on twitter and facebook, to the incredible marshals on the course throughout the weekend – it’s an
event to be proud of!

When I was checking out the various Tri clubs in Dublin, I was immediately drawn towards Piranha. There was a buzz among the members,
a willingness to share experiences and tips, and always good natured banter even from the Ladyboys. This positive energy was definitely evident
in the build up to DCT. It was incredible to see so many members offer up so much of their time to help the organising committee. From the building
of transition to the packing of goodie packs, label printing, leaflet dropping, traffic signs… the list is endless.

The night before DCT I had spoken to two friends that would be competing and they both commented on how more relaxed they were after chatting to
the Piranha’s at registration. It was their very first triathlon and the butterflies were out in force so it was fantastic to hear they were treated
so well. Along came Sunday morning, there was energy in the air, I think some of the Piranha’s were as nervous as some of the competitors.
We were treated to porridge, muffins and coffee which was extremely welcome after a late night. With my belly full, I headed off to the run course with
Rory and Co. Rory reminded me of a Green Beret with his backpack, lil map and running ahead to scout the ground. With his guidance we had the course quickly
marked and awaited the arrival of supplies for the water stop. I was really looking forward to lugging it up the hill but sure was complete in minutes
with everyone giving a hand. Including the two lil princesses who handed out chocolate biscuit cake pieces.

With the course marked and the water station set up, we eagerly awaited the texts to tell us the race was on. As soon as we heard the first wave of
Olympic competitors were through transition, we moved to Kyper Pass to cheers on the triathletes as they headed out on the first of five laps. We weren’t
waiting long before Gavin Noble literally flew by. We ooohed and aaahhhed at the beautiful bikes passing by. Fifty Shades of Bikes!! It wasn’t long
till more and more waves were attacking Kyper Pass and I easily burned off the Chocolate Biscuit Cake with the clapping and cheering.

Another text came through, the competitors were back in transition. To our positions! I eagerly waited the sight of Gavin storming through the trees.
Wording what I’d say in my head, and continually rewording it. And then he appeared, with a smile and nod of the head he acknowledged my instruction
to bear right and there was a water station ahead. During a quiet moment I texted my better half to say Gavin Noble just passed in super quick time.
She reminded me he was probably in a rush to text his buddies he’d just passed me. Well it made me laugh.

The next few hours flew by, encouraging as many athletes as possible, calling their club colours or their names. Many said thanks which made it
all worth while. We have all experienced that waning moment in a race and felt the surge in energy from the marshals and crowd when they cheer you on.
Heading back to the Boat Club after taking down the run course and somehow managing to fit all the gear into my lil workhorse, it was great to see the
smiles of relief from many athletes as they sported they well deserved Vodafone Gilets. A delicious burger had my name on it, which was promptly demolished as
our commander-in-chief gave out the age group prizes. It was a welcome break for tired legs before unloading the workhorse and heading back out to
deliver the water safety RIB.

There must have been many a weary body that evening, athlete and marshal alike. And seeing many of the comments on Twitter etc from competitors thanking the
volunteers and the organisers, we can safely say DCT was a huge success. I hope the other marshals enjoyed themselves as much as myself and will
be ready to volunteer again next year. DCT is a magnificent event made even greater by the many volunteers that give up their free time to ensure the
athletes have the best possible experience and securing the future of Piranha Tri.

Piranha’s, I salute you!