Meet the Volunteers: The Cal Poly Crew and Their Legacy at Wildflower

If you’ve been to Wildflower before, you know there’s a certain energy in the air. It’s loud, fun,
and kind of chaotic in the best way. A huge part of that energy comes from the volunteers,
especially Cal Poly students. And this year? They’re back in full force.
Currently, over 150 students from Cal Poly are registered to volunteer at Wildflower this year,
and that number is still growing. You’ll see them pretty much everywhere: setting up transitions,
directing athletes on course, handing out water, and cheering on racers throughout the day. With
Wildflower returning after a few years off, the Mustang volunteers are picking up right where
they left off, bringing the same spirit and energy that’s defined their presence at the event for
years.

Cal Poly students have been volunteering at Wildflower for decades. It’s the kind of tradition that
gets passed down each year, especially through student organizations and club teams. Volunteers
come from all corners of campus, including club sports, Greek life, the triathlon team, and more.
There’s something about Wildflower that really resonates with you. Whether you’re experiencing
it for the first time or coming back again, it’s a weekend that leaves a lasting impression. From
the camping and the music to the crowds and early mornings, it all adds up to something
unforgettable. This year, Cal Poly students are excited to be back at the heart of it all.
“Getting to volunteer this year feels really special. It’s like were bringing back a tradition we’ve
only heard stoires about. I couldn’t be more excited,” said Jordyn Hilliker, a volunteer attending
Wildflower for her first time this year.

Additionally, the collegiate competition is one of the things that makes Wildflower so fun for Cal
Poly students. With schools like UCSB, Berkeley, and others out on the course, there’s a real
sense of school pride. A big reason Cal Poly brings so much energy as volunteers is because they
want to show up for their fellow Mustangs. Whether they’re racing or cheering from the
sidelines, students are out there with school spirit and ready to support each other all weekend
long.

For a lot of students, Wildflower is way more than just a volunteer shift. It’s a chance to be part
of something bigger, to connect with new people, spend time outside, and support athletes doing
something really inspiring. At Cal Poly, it almost feels like a rite of passage. Volunteering at
Wildflower has been a long-standing tradition for students in the past, and this year, they’re
excited to bring that tradition back.

Cal Poly volunteers will be out there all weekend, cheering, helping out, and doing their part to
make Wildflower what it is. If you spot someone in a Cal Poly shirt, know that they’re there to
support the event and bring great energy. They’re excited to be part of it all.