Townsend 7/15K Foot Race
Date: Sat September 13, 2025 Location: Townsend, TN
1. OVERVIEW
- The annual Townsend 7/15K foot race will take place in Townsend, TN. Communications volunteers are required to provide logistical and emergency support along the race route.
- The course includes both a 7K and a 15K route utilizing local roads in and around Townsend.
- The routes overlap until the turn at the end of Cedar Creek Road where the 7K will turn left and the 15K will turn right to complete an out-and-back along Webb/Carrs Creek Road.
- Race will start and finish at Peaceful Side Social. Course closes after 2.5 hours
- Weather conditions may include rain; all operators should prepare for wet or changing conditions.
- Blount County ARES volunteers are tasked with establishing and maintaining effective communications for the duration of the event.
2. OUR ROLE
Provide reliable, real-time communications coverage along the Townsend 7/15K race route in order to:
- Relay status updates from race personnel,
- Report medical or logistical issues to Net Control,
- Monitor safety conditions along the course,
- Assist in coordination of race logistics (e.g., water stops, course closures).
Volunteers must be in place and ready for check-in by 07:45 and remain on post until released by Net Control.
3. EXECUTION
a. Concept of Operations
- Net Control will be established at River Road by 07:15.
- All field operators are to be in position and checked in by 07:45.
- Communications will be conducted on the 146.625 repeater (TSQL 118.8).
- Tactical call signs may be used for location identification.
- Field units will monitor the net throughout the event and report any needs or incidents to NCS.
b. Timeline
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 07:15 | Net Control setup on River Rd |
| 07:45 | Roll call -- all units in place |
| 08:00 | Race begins |
| ~10:30 | Race ends, demobilization begins |
c. Assignments
| Location | Operator | Callsign | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Net Control (NCS) | David | KE4FGW | River Rd -- Go box, ant, generator |
| 73 & 321 | Lou | WB3JKQ | |
| Cedar & Carnes Rd | Melvin | WB4KSM | |
| Cedar & Carrs Creek Rd | William | KI4HDU | Water stop (out and return) |
| Carrs & Cameron | Craig | NW1A | |
| Carrs Turnaround | Ramsey | W4NFN | |
| Carrs & 321 | Chuck | KD4VLH |
4. SERVICE & SUPPORT
- Operators are responsible for their own communications gear (HTs, mobile rigs, batteries).
- NCS will provide a go box with antenna and generator power at River Rd.
- Bring personal items such as water, snacks, chair, clipboard, rain gear, and any required medications.
- Dress appropriately for weather and standing time.
5. COMMAND & SIGNAL
a. Net Control
- David KE4FGW will act as Net Control Station and coordinate all radio traffic and incident reporting.
- All check-ins, traffic, and releases must go through NCS.
b. Frequency Plan
- Primary: 146.625 MHz (-) TSQL 118.8 (Blount County Repeater)
c. Reporting
-
Check in with NCS on arrival at assigned location
-
Maintain situational awareness and report:
- Injuries or medical needs
- Hazards (weather, traffic, etc.)
- Logistical support needs
-
Clear with NCS before leaving your post
Be professional, prepared, and punctual. Your support is critical to a safe and successful event.