This Ottawa Marathon medical team member became the unsung hero of the finish line chute
A splash of water was a welcome sight for many runners at the end of their races at the 2017 Ottawa Marathon
With temperatures in the low to mid-twenties, at Ottawa Race Weekend, runners were in search of a way to cool off at the finish line.
On Saturday, the Ottawa 10K, temperatures around the start of the race, 6:30 p.m., were approximately 23 C. Conditions were similar during the marathon and the half-marathons that went off on Sunday beginning at 7 a.m. with sunny and clear skies.
To the volunteers who’ve helped at every step of the way: you’re all amazing humans and we’re so incredibly lucky to have you here!
— Ottawa Marathon (@OttawaMarathon) May 28, 2017
As the 45,000 participants made their way to the finish line, one member of the medical team was present with a spray bottle offering a chance for runners to cool off. From there, runners made their way through the chute to grab post-race snacks and electrolyte drinks as a means of recovering. Then, race medals were handed out on Queen Elizabeth Drive adjacent to Ottawa City Hall.
It’s safe to say, as can be seen in the video, that most runners were relieved to make a brief stop for the spray.