“In 2024, I participated in the Zone IC (Zone Incident Commander) training course organised by RunOurCity. The two-day training was truly eye-opening and incredibly rewarding. I learned how challenging it is to organize a large outdoor running event. From race planning and coordinating organizations to managing resources and manpower, the complexity is immense. Previously, I had volunteered for two running events, but my roles were quite straightforward. This course, however, offered comprehensive training, requiring me to oversee everything that could happen along a section of the race route. I had to communicate and coordinate with volunteer leaders on-site, other zone ICs, and event staff, ensuring clear messaging, making timely and appropriate decisions, and staying calm at all times.”
In 2024, the ROCademy (RunOurCity Academy) was officially established to create a platform for the public and runners to comprehensively learn how to organize large-scale running events, both in theory and practice. Our goal is to bring more growth and energy to the running event industry. Graduates of the program have the opportunity to apply their skills by participating in various events in a professional capacity. For example, students from ROCademy played key roles in the “KERRY HONG KONG STREETATHON 2024”, where they found the experience fulfilling and thoroughly enjoyable.
Offered courses including but not limited to:
◉Exploring Running Event Operations
◉Race Course Coordination and Management
◉Pacing the Race: Training for Pacers and Sweepers
◉Zone Leaders Intensive Training
Looking ahead, we will introduce more courses and learning opportunities, and we encourage everyone to join in and get involved.
“On 8th December 2024, I participated in the Streetathon as a pacer for the half marathon with a target time of 2:50 hours. I’m truly grateful to RunOurCity for their hard work behind the scenes—finding coaches, securing training venues, arranging our gear, and more.
The pacer training has taught me how to maintain a steady pace and heart rate, and it’s been amazing to learn and share experiences with like-minded runners. The biggest change for me has been realising that running isn’t always about chasing personal bests—what matters just as much is the journey. Through running, I’ve found that I can offer something to others, whether it’s a bit of support, a high five, a shout of ‘keep going,’ or even a simple thumbs-up.
Running together as a big group is such a heartfelt, inspiring experience. Let’s go, RunOurCity!”
Ray Chan – Attended the First Pacer and Sweeper Training Course
“In 2023, I volunteered for the streetathon for the first time and was assigned as a marshal for the 10-kilometer race inside the Blue Tunnel from 07:00 to 09:00. During that time, I was curious about what others were doing and how the process was organized. After the runners finished the race and I collected supplies/garbage as they left, I realized that even a small section of the course required a large amount of supplies and manpower for transportation. So, I participated in the Marshal basic course and Zone IC training organized by RunOurCity, where I learned about the processes and responsibilities of various positions and gained insights from major races around the world. However, understanding theory without practical experience is insufficient.
In 2024, I was given the opportunity and responsibility to distribute runner packs and serve as the Zone IC on the racecourse for the first time. I also attended meetings held by the event organizers and various government departments, gaining further knowledge about security and practical work. As the race approached, I gathered bits and pieces of what I had learned, hoping to apply the knowledge to the actual event. I collaborated with other Marshals, medical team, water station volunteers, and timing staff to successfully complete the Zone 2 section of the race, ensuring the reporting list was accurate, the area was cleaned on time, and the route was opened.
On the day of the event, there was a small incident: a female full marathon runner came to my station wanting to switch to the half marathon because her friend was running it and she wanted to run together. I explained that she had two options: 1. DQ and wait for the sweeper bus, or 2. Continue for the first 10 kilometers and decide when she met the half marathon runners. She chose to continue and quickly turned back to catch up with the half marathon course. Although I don’t know her final decision, I’m glad she didn’t give up early.”