LVO events are run entirely by volunteers. And because we put on such an extensive programme of events, we need a large team of people to cover all the roles of planner, organiser and controller.
For the past three years, I’ve sat down in September and started calling, emailing, WhatsApp-ing the nearly 60 individuals required to run the following year’s calendar. The vast majority agree to taking up a role, with those unable to having legitimate personal reasons why. Much as I love getting in touch with all these members, it’s a huge undertaking for me to have to reach out to people at weekends and evenings when I really would prefer to be hanging out with my kids or doing my own thing.
The reality is, I shouldn’t really have to ask. Volunteering isn’t something you should wait to be contacted about. It’s part of being a member of LVO. If you’ve been a member for more than two years and are regularly orienteering competitively at TD5 (Green), then it’s your duty to do your turn as planner, organiser or controller (if qualified) at an event. If you’ve never planned or organised before, we can provide you with training and/or an experienced mentor who can help you pop that cherry.
The fixtures team have already selected the maps to be used for the 2027 Championship, Colour Series and Club Events. If you’re ponying up to plan a WEE, it’s first come, first served when choosing your map. The dates will be put in place after a bit of discussion with the other NI clubs and to suit permissions and event officials.
So, can people please have a look at the calendar and then take responsibility for getting in touch with me and say, ‘I can plan this… I can control this… I can organise this…’ to which I’ll reply, ‘You’re a star. Thanks so much!’ Even better if you can sort out your teams in advance. I must admit, there is a special place in my heart for Susan and Richard, Fred and Cecil, and Steph, Fionne and Sharon who come as ready-made packages. I struggle when I ask someone who volunteers to plan, ‘who do you want to work with?’ and they say, ‘Just no annoying idiots.’
You’ve until I’ve recovered from the Mourne Mountain Marathon to get your dibs in. Once I’m compos mentos, then I’ll start calling and I’ll be less forgiving.
Many thanks,
Moire