Howard H. (Birkie "Patrol" Director) chats with patrollers gathering Friday afternoon at the Hayward Senior Center...
...then boogie over to the Hayward Middle School Library Hotel (reserved for patrollers) to claim a spot to sleep.
(photo by Julie Timmons)
Claims range from vendor canopies, areas cordoned off with tables and chairs, down to spaces between (or under) tables.
(photo by Julie Timmons)
Back at the Senior Center, first-time patrollers attend the "Rookie U" Orientation led by Jeff S (seated at far end of table.)
Some veterans will often "sit in" for a refresher.
While we all politely wait for dinner, Brett overhears John W. talking with Dan G's daughter (mom at left) about the wonders of the smart phone, and he can’t resist...
...teasing her about texting.
Speaking of waiting for dinner, the chefs have finished preparing our Friday dinner while hungry patrollers begin to gather near the serving window (just out of view.)
Dinner is served!
After dinner, Howard H (at right) leads the evening pre-race briefing session.
...and then it's back to the hotel, to make sure we have everything we need in our packs,
or relax and socialize a little before turning in for the night.
(Don't stay up too late. We have to be back at the Senior Center at 5:30am for breakfast! :)