Former runner, Army veteran, and Marshall University alumnus Thomas Plummer serves as timer and deputy race director for the Marshall University St. Mary’s Marathon and Half-Marathon. The Marathon began in 2003 and is dedicated to bringing the HealthierUS Initiative to the local area. When he is not cycling or participating in civic and church events, Thomas can be found relaxing with his wife Judy and two daughters.
Name: Thomas Plummer
Website: Marshall University St. Mary’s Marathon and Half-Marathon
Role: Currently Timer and Deputy Race Director
Social Media: Facebook & Twitter.
Can you tell us a little bit about all of your events?
The majority of my events are road races, like marathons and half-marathons, followed by cross-country races and a few bike and triathlon events.
How did you personally get started in the industry?
I always loved running and eventually decided to get involved behind-the-scenes as a timer and race director.
What’s your favorite thing about what you do?
My favorite part is getting to meet so many people; I’ve met some of the greatest people in this job.
What’s your least favorite thing about what you do?
It can get difficult when I have to be out in the bitter cold, snow or wet weather. I’d rather stay warm and dry!
How long have you been working with ChronoTrack?
Well, I’ve been to 7 ChronoTrack timer conferences, but my first conference was about 4 months after receiving my first equipment.
What made you switch to ChronoTrack software/hardware?
We previously used another chip timing system but decided to switch after conversations with fellow timers about the quality of ChronoTrack’s equipment and timer support.
What are 3 things you like best about ChronoTrack?
Good question! I’d have to say great, reliable equipment; exceptional support that we can count on; and new products that help us sell our services.
What is one trick you’ve learned in the ChronoTrack system that has helped you save time/do something better?
I wouldn’t necessarily call it a trick, but simply taking proper care of your equipment and keeping it organized is a huge time-saver!
What is the most practical, hands-on advice you would give a newbie?
Some great advice I try to live by is practice, practice, practice. Perfect practice makes for a perfect event!
What’s your favorite race and why?
My favorite races have to be the Marshall University St. Mary’s Marathon and Half-Marathon. You can’t beat the finish line being on the Marshall football field where Chad Pennington, Byron Leftwich, and Randy Moss once played! It’s a flat course, which makes for a great qualifier, and we offer discounts to active members of our Armed Forces (something that’s important to me as I used to serve in the Army). Throw in the Asics warm-up jacket, the pre-race pasta dinner, and our awesome staff and volunteers and you have one good race!
What are your goals for 2016 and onward?
My goal is to continue providing quality service and find ways to make it even better!
To learn more about Marshall University St. Mary’s Marathon and Half-Marathon, click here.
To learn more about ChronoTrack, click here.
