MANCHESTER, Conn. — Inside her war room at Silk City Coffee, Irene Smith is rallying her Manchester Road Race volunteers.
“These people are so dedicated by far, that is the best part of it,” said Smith.
“Irene’s Army” will have over 400 people lining the race course this year for the Thanksgiving tradition.
“I will tell you the only real talent I have is that I recognize what’s in others and get them to do the job,” Smith said.
It’s something this Manchester mom and one-time emergency room nurse has done with precision for 48 years!
“You know I do everything for a long time. I was married for a long time, my job I worked at for a long time. I just keep showing up, and why, because I like the people I’m with,” said Smith.
Smith is talking about people like long-time volunteer Liz Wilson.
“I started in 1979, so I think they said this is my 43rd year,” said Wilson.
“I think Irene’s Army is the most loyal group of volunteers any leader has,” said Jerry Bujaucius, who has been volunteering with Smith for 42 years.
Wilson said 85-year-old Smith is a quick as a whip and kind.
“Oh my gosh, she can just run circles around all of us, she really can. She is just a wonderful person, she just cares about people and it shows,” said Wilson.
Her team also said Smith leads with humor and a heart of gold.
“It is just a joy to be part of her army,” said Bujaucius.
“That is a really nice thing to hear," said Smith, who is eager to put that praise back on her team. "I am only your reflection of them, I mean really I am only a reflection of them,” said Smith.
Smith shows no sign of slowing down and Irene’s Army wants her to know they’re staying loyal.
“I will be there, and she can depend on me,” said Wilson.
It’s loyalty and love for a race day leader who said her success is rooted in putting her team first.
“I want them to know. I care about them, and I thank them. I really do,” said Smith.