The easiest way to say you belong to something bigger than yourself is to go beyond getting exercise and sign up for a race. Participating in a race of any nature gives you the opportunity to meet others who obviously have a similar interest or hobby. Competitors and participants are what make races a race. Races often support a cause for which another organization benefits. Races give local sponsors exposure and hopefully some extra business. Spectators look on and may become inspired. It all happens as participants make their way through the designated course toward a finish line.

Another way to represent is not as a participant but rather by being a volunteer. Volunteering at an event is extremely rewarding. Over the last seven years I have competed in many varied and different events and distances. NONE of them would have been possible had it not been for the volunteers. Volunteering your time and/or your talents shows you are supporting the sport or event. As a non-competito,r it can be fun to watch everyone else deal with race day jitters and multiple trips to the port-a-let. It is fun to be relaxed and not stressing about what item may have been left at home. Most of all it is fun to work with people who may need some help, advice or directions to the next step in the registration process. Most people are grateful for the time you are providing and express their gratitude. I have never walked away from donating my time with any regrets. I have always felt good. I have also walked away with some great stories. Volunteering at an event takes a very small amount of time and lends itself to big rewards. The return on investment is huge and if you believe in karma (as I do), it can't hurt. To take it beyond a single event, get involved in a club on a board member level.

Both PRA and Tri Gulf Coast operate as volunteer-based organizations. It's typically a year-long commitment of at least monthly meetings plus other varied tasks. It's an event-driven commitment based on projects and the other responsibilities of your position. And it is truly fun. 

I have been on the TGC board in some capacity for several years. Four years ago, with the support of the directors, I took on the kit program and have held that spot since. I am finally ready to pass the torch to Gary Garza who will do an amazing job. But it isn't easy giving it up because it has been fun and rewarding. With each board of officers I have had absolute support and lots of help. And, in the end, I see people all over Pensacola zipping around in TGC kits and thinking "that is so cool" because that has been my baby. It's my way to support the club and the sport.  

It all started out with getting involved as a board member. The rest is history. I have made some great friends and I feel like I have helped promote this lifestyle. It is a win-win all the way around. In order for a club to survive and stay fresh it must have people to rotate in and out of positions. That keeps the energy high as well as helps bring fresh ideas to the table. As stated, it is a commitment. And make that commitment only if you can see it through. If being in a specific position is not something that can be seen through, get your name out there as a resource. Speaking for TGC we have people not on the board who have offered up plenty of time to help our events without having a label in the organization.

All of the above are clear ways to "represent" a sport, club or lifestyle. They are far-reaching and publicly visible. So consider all the opportunities out there to represent and ask yourself, how will I?