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FAQ

FAQ

BACKGROUND

BACKGROUND

What is the Civilian Military Combine (CMC)?

CMC is the premier race event in the fast growing obstacle course adventure race space. CMC provides the best designed, most exhilarating and unique format of any race available to the public. Designed for all level athletes to test strength, endurance and agility, CMC’s race day structure consists of the adrenaline pumping strength element called “The PIT” transitioning into an exhilarating military grade obstacle course race. The difficulty of the CMC competition is determined by the competitor and attracts both weekend warriors looking for the ultimate challenge as well as competitive athlete looking to win.

What is the philosophy behind Civilian Military Combine?

The philosophy behind the CMC is to combine both strength and endurance to find the most well rounded athlete. As fitness has become apart of our every days lives and as science has proven over the last few decades, focusing our time training just on strength or just on endurance as a way to stay in shape and be as healthy is not what is best for the human body. The Civilian Military Combine sought to not only combine both strength and endurance into a one day competition and event but at the same time honor and allows civilians to pay homage to the men and woman that serve our country. It allows both military and civilians to run alongside one another as well as support the concept of training your body in its entirety.

Who created the Civilian Military Combine?

This race structure has been carefully created, refined and reviewed by the top strength and conditioning coaches from the Cross Fit community, United States Armed Forces and USA Triathlon Organization Race Directors.

Is Civilian Military Combine the same as other events out there like the Tough Mudder, Spartan Race, etc?

The CMC is NOT like other events that are currently in the adventure race space.

The CMC is a strength and endurance competition that allows competitors to test themselves in the different environments our world provides.

The CMC has different race series which take place in different terrains please review the following…
  1. CMC Mountain Assault Series- This race series challenges the competitors in mountainous terrain. Be expected to run through plenty of MUD, streams, mountains, trail runs, forests, etc etc.
  2. CMC Urban Assault Series- This series challenges the competitor in an Urban setting. Be expected to face some MUD obstacles, lifts and carries (Sand bags and Bucket carrries), running on harder terrain such as concrete, packed dirt and trails. You will be faced with car climbs, ladder walls, hudles, wall climbs, cargo nets and anything found in an Urban environment
  3. CMC Beach Assault Series-This series challenges the competitor in a beach environment. Be prepared to face running/ walking or jogging in sand, sand obstacles, some water obstacles (PLEASE NOTE: all water obstacles will have safety lines if over 3 feet deep or any water current is involved In the obstacle) wall obstacles, lift and carries, tunnels and much more

Who competes in the CMC?

Anyone can compete in the CMC. If you have a disability that may prohibit you from completing certain thigs in the PIT or the race course please contact us at the following at info@civilianmilitarycombine.com.

PLEASE NOTE – all disabilities can be worked with


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CMC “PIT”, “COURSE” & “OBSTACLE” INFORMATION

Is the Civilian Military Combine dangerous?

All races/challenges in the Adventure Race Space have their levels of danger. The CMC had been designed by architects and constructed by licensed contractors to ensure that each obstacle in the CMC course will withstand any and all athletes.

    What is the Civilian Military Combine PIT?

    Please chek out our strenght event page.

    I've never done the exercises in the PIT - should I sign up?

    Yes, you should still sign up and then check out to our training page to start working on your form. Use our competition as a goal in your long-term training; use it to grow as a person and an athlete. You can do this.

    Do I have to do all elements in the PIT?

    No, you don't have to do all the elements in the PIT. If you are injured, you can forfeit the elements you cannot perform, and then you will have to do your best to make up reps on the elements you can perform.

    What if I can’t complete an element in the PIT due to injury and/or lack of mobility?

    If you cannot complete and element in the PIT due to injury and/or lack of mobility, you can forfeit the elements you cannot perform, and then you will have to do your best to make up reps on the elements you can perform. A second option that you have is to do a modified movement (if any). In this case, 2 reps will count as 1 rep.

    Can I do only the PIT or only the race?

    No, you have to compete the PIT and then transfer to the starting line to participate in the race. If you do not do both, you will not be considered as a participant, and you will not qualify for the end of the event rewards.

    How long do I have between the PIT and the start of the run?

    You will have exactly 3 minutes between the end of the PIT and the start of the run of your heat. That will be enough time for the transition process and if you would like to have some water before the run.

    Can I change my footwear between the PIT and race?

    Yes, you will be able to change your footwear between the CMC PIT and the race. You can bring your footwear that you are running with inside the pit, but and make sure to carry it to each element with you. Please make sure that you have somebody in the crowd to your shoes as during the transition period. Any shoes left in the PIT will be discarded and donated to charity. Please note, NO shoes can be left in the PIT..

    What is the Civilian Military Combine course?

    Each event is different, go to our events detail page to see the different courses.

    Can I view the course in advance?

    Yes, you will be able to view the course in advance. There will be a sample map posted on the individual event page for each event. There will be a list of the types of obstacles that you should expect during the race.

    NOTE: This is just a sample map, and the course may be changed before to the event.

    Is there swimming at the Civilian Military Combine course?

    It depends, in some courses you my encounter a swimming obstacle, however, to compete at the CMC events, you do not need to be able to swim. In any obstacle that is 3 feet or dipper, if needed, participants will have the opportunity to assist themselves with cables and/or ropes

    Can I skip an obstacle?

    Yes, however, by skipping an obstacle, you will not be eligible for the CMC awards at the end of the race. After all you have signed up for the CMC event to prove yourself, and to show what you are made of and if you want to skip an obstacle, you only cheat yourself.

    Are there water and aid stations on each course?

    Yes, water will be provided in the beginning of the course, directly after you finish the CMC PIT and also on key locations throughout the course after. The last water/hydration station will be at the finish line. When it comes to aid stations, every CMC staff member or volunteer will be able to call medical assistance if and when needed.


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    CONTACT

    How do I reach Customer Service?

     If you cannot find the answer on the question that you are looking for on here, please email us at info@civilianmilitarycombine.com, we will try to answer as soon as possible.

    Where do I go for more information?

     If any of your questions were not answered on here, please email us at info@civilianmilitarycombine.com, we will try to answer as soon as possible.

    How can I become a volunteer?

    To register as a volunteer, please visit our volunteer page, to find the volunteer form. Please fill out all the required information and we will get in touch with you.

    I am a journalist. How do I sign up?

    Please email us at info@civilianmilitarycombine.com with the following information:

    1. Name
    2. Address
    3. Email Address
    4. Brief description of the company you work for and what you are looking to cover within the CMC.

    We will get back to you ASAP.


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    EVENT DAY

    What time should I arrive on race day?

    At every CMC event, registration opens at 8.00 am. The first heats usually go out at 10.00 am. Please make sure that you arrive at least an hour before your heat, so that you have enough time to go trough the registration process, warm up and be on time for your heat. Please note that a CMC newsletter will be sent prior to the event with all the necessary information.

    Where can I store my valuables during the event?

    Every CMC event has a secure baggage check area, where you will be able to drop off your belongings during the event.

    What time should I chick in for the heats?

    Check in opens at 8.00 am. There you will be able to pick up your event packet and all that you will need for the race. Once you are all set the heat check in is usually 10-20 minutes before the heat time itself. Check your exact heat time and listen for announcements on the day of the event. Please note that a CMC newsletter will be sent prior to the event with all the necessary information.

    What should I bring?

    Wear light comfortable clothes and footwear. You can also bring gloves and depending on the weather on race day, you can bring some warm clothes for during and/or after the race.

    Will Civilian Military Combine be canceled if there is bad weather?

    Every CMC event is a test of strength, endurance and agility. What would be better to test yourself than doing the entire CMC race during bad weather? CMC will not be canceled unless the forecast predicts a lightning storm or extreme weather such as hurricane, blizzard, or tornado. As combiners, we enjoy our elements and the show will go on. 

    Where do I collect my Event Packet?

    You will be able to pick your event packet, on race day at the registration tent. If there is event packet pick up before the event, you will be notified in a newsletter weeks in advance.

    Can someone else pick up my race packet at the pre-race packet pick-up?

    No, nobody else would be allowed to pick up your race packet. You must pick it up yourself with a valid form of a picture ID.

    How does Civilian Military Combine punish cheaters?

    CMC does not punish cheaters. If you try to “cheat” you just get disqualified and you will not be eligible for the CMC awards at the end of the event. After all you have signed up for the CMC event to prove yourself what you are made of and if you want to cheat, you only cheat yourself. 

    What if I can’t swim?

    To compete at the CMC events, you do not need to be able to swim. In any obstacle that is 3 feet or dipper, if needed, participants will have the opportunity to assist themselves with cables and/or ropes.

    What if I get sick or injured?

    There will be plenty of CMC volunteers that will be able to immediately call Medical personal to assist with any problem you may be having.

    How do I get photos taken at the CMC PIT and on the Civilian Military Combine course?

    All photos taken at the CMC PIT or on the CMC course will be published on the Nuvision website. You will be able to get all of them FREE of charge. You will be provided a link to the photos in a newsletter following the CMC event you are participating in.


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    HOW DO I REGISTER?

    How do I register for a Civilian Military Combine race?

    You can register for any CMC race at our event page. Please select the race that you would like to participate in and press the register button on there. At some races, there will be registration available on the day of the race, however, we can not guarantee you that the event will have available spots at that time. We encourage all our participants to register ASAP.

    Where is my confirmation email?

    You confirmation email will be send to you right after you complete the registration process. Please make sure that you register with an email that you regularly check, because we will use that email to contact you with important information for the upcoming event.

    NOTE: If you do not receive an email with your registration after you complete it, please check your spam box. Also add info@civilianmilitarycombine.com to your address book because this will be the email that you will receive updates from for the upcoming event.

    Are you experiencing issues/problems during the registration process?

    If you are experiencing issues/problems during the registration process, please contact us immediately at info@civilianmilitarycombine.com, and the issue will be taken care of. 

    Can I register by mail or phone?

    No, each and every participant must register trough our online registration. Please visit our event page where you will be able to find the appropriate link to register for the event of your choice.

    NOTE: If you are a large team (15+ participants) and you would like to pay by check, we can make the appropriate accommodations. Please contact us at info@civilianmilitarycombine.com for more information.

    What is the deadline for registration?

    The deadline for registration is usually 8 days before the race itself. Please check our event page for the specific date of the event you are looking to attend. Also you will be given updates for registration deadlines and new events via our newsletters. Make sure that your email is on our list.

    Is it possible to register as an individual and then get added to a team?

    Yes, you can register as an individual and then be added to a team. Contact us at info@civilianmilitarycombine.com with the name of the team that you would like to be added to. Please make sure that the name is spelled right and that you have included any numbers and/or symbols that may be in the name, because we do have teams with similar names in our registration system.

    I am not sure if I am really registered. Is there a place I can check?

    Yes, you can check if you are registered for a particular event. When you registered, you were asked to create an account at our registration center. Please login on there and check your previous purchases. If you have trouble accessing your account, please contact us at info@civilianmilitarycombine.com and we will get back to you ASAP.

    I have lost my confirmation email, can I get another one?

    Yes, you can get a new confirmation email. When you registered, you were asked to create an account at our registration center. Please login on there and check your previous purchases. You should be able to send yourself new confirmation email for the event you are participating in. If you have trouble with accessing your account and/or finding the information that you are looking for, please contact us at info@civilianmilitarycombine.com and we will get back to you ASAP.


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    LODGING, TRANSPORTATION & PARKING

    Where can I find directions to Civilian Military Combine race?

    For directions to a CMC event, please visit our event page and you will be able to find the direction to the specific event on its own page. Please note that a CMC newsletter will be sent prior to the event with all the necessary information. If you need any additional help, please contact us.

    Where can I find Lodging for an event?

    For Lodging information, please visit our event page and you will be able to find the nearby lodging and accommodation on the specific event’s page. Please note that a CMC newsletter will be sent prior to the event with all the necessary information. If you need any additional help, please contact us.

    Can I camp?

    Camping at any CMC event is strictly prohibited. However, if there is camping opportunity onsite or nearby, we will let you know via our newsletter.

    Does Civilian Military Combine provide transportation to the events?

    Currently CMC does not provide transportation to any of the CMC events. If there is transportation provided for a specific event, it will be mentioned at the event’s description, and you will also be notified via the CMC newsletter for that particular race.  

    Where do I park on event day?

    Each CMC event will have different parking situation. Please check out our event page, where you will find information for every individual event. Please note that a CMC newsletter will be sent prior to the event with all the necessary information. If you need any additional help, please contact us.

    Can I bring RV, Bus, or another large mode of transportation?

    No, camping in the parking lot of any CMC event is strictly prohibited.

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    POST-EVENT DAY

    Where can I buy Civilian Military Combine gear?

    Currently you can buy CMC gear only at the CMC events. Soon you will be able to get it at our online store.

    Will the results be posted online?

    Yes, all CMC results will be posted online. Stay tuned for a newsletter after the event that will provide all the needed information in regard to the results.


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    POST-EVENT PARTY

    Do I have to pay extra for the post-event party?

    No, there is no charge at any CMC post-event party. All combiners as well as spectators are permitted to enjoy the festivities for free.

    Will there be showers?

    Yes, CMC will provide showers at every event.

    Will there be food?

    Yes, there will be food at every CMC event.

    Will there be alcohol?

    Yes there will be alcohol for sale. Every participant over the age of 21 will receive a ticket for a free beer as a part of their registration. They can get their free beers after the race. 

    Can I bring my own food and alcohol?

    No, you are not allowed to bring your own food and alcohol on the event site, because of venue rules and regulations.

    Do I really get one beer?

    Yes, all participants over the age of 21 will receive a free beer ticket as part of their registration package.

    Is there an awards ceremony?

    Yes. The award ceremony will take place 30 minutes to 1 hour after the last person passes through the finish line.

    How can I nominate someone for the “Most Respect Award”?

    On race day, please go to the registration tent at and give the BIB number of the person that you would like to nominate to a registration volunteer.

    What do the participants get at the end of the race?

    At the end of the CMC race, every participant gets the pride of completing the course as well as the feeling of self-accomplishment. Each participant also receives a CMC Dog Tag and a Veterans T-shirt.


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    PREPARING FOR CMC

    How should I train for the Civilian Military Combine event?

    For every race, the preparation is very important. That why we suggest that you check out our training page, where we have provided numerous suggestions on how to train for any of the CMC series.  Please check out our training page at the as the CMC provide numerous outlets on how to train for the CMC.

    Is the Civilian Military Combine a CrossFit competition and is it open only to CrossFitters?

    The CMC is NOT a CrossFit Competition and is open to everyone. Anyone can perform the fundamental movements that have been chosen for the PIT as well as run through the obstacle course. The CMC has been designed for all athletes of all levels, whether you are looking to compete and try to place in a CMC series, or just to complete a CMC event.


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    PRICING & DISCOUNTS

    How much does an event cost?

    Each event costs different. It all depends on when you register for the event.  Please check our event page for more information. There you will be able to see the prices for each individual event, as well as the price increases schedule.

    What is included in the entry fee?

    The entry fee guarantee you not only participation in the race itself, but also great after party. After you compete the CMC race course, you will receive a CMC Dog Tag and a CMC Veteran T-shirt. Everyone over the age of 21 will also get a ticket for a free beer. Other things that you will get with the entry fee are free baggage check and free photos of the event.

     

    Are the prices listed per person or per team?

    All prices are listed on individual base. Each participant, that is a part of a team, sings individually under his/hers team mane.

    I found a discount code after I registered, can I use it?

    No, all registrations are final. We have no refund policy and discount codes cannot be applied after the registration process is finished. You can use the code for registration to a future race.

    Do you charge for spectators

    No, all spectators are welcome free of charge. Please check the spectators’ portion of the questions.


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    REFUNDS

    Can I get a refund?

    CMC has a no refund policy. You can transfer your ticket to a different event, or to a new person, no later than 14 days before the event you were signed up for (additional fees may apply).

    I am injured and can’t run; can I get a refund?

    CMC has a no refund policy. You will be will be able to transfer your registration to a future CMC event (additional fees may apply).

    If I sign up but can’t participate, can I give my ticket to someone else?

    Yes, you can transfer you registration to another person, no later than 14 days before the race (additional fees may apply).

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    REGISTRATION DETAILS

    What is included in the entry fee?

    The entry fee guarantee you not only participation in the race itself, but also great after party. After you compete the CMC race course, you will receive a CMC Dog Tag and a CMC Veteran T-shirt. Everyone over the age of 21 will also get a ticket for a free beer. Other things that you will get with the entry fee are free baggage check and free photos of the event.

    Why do I have to pay an Insurance Fee?

    The insurance fee are mandatory for every participant in a CMC race. Our provider requires everyone to purchase it in case of an accident. The insurance protects you in case you get injured in the PIT or during the race course. It guarantees that you will be taken care of in case your own insurance does not completely cover you.

    Do I have to sign a waiver to participate?

    Yes, a signed waiver is mandatory for your participation on race day. We suggest that you have familiarized yourself with the waiver before the race itself.

    What is the deadline for registration?

    The deadline for registration is usually 8 days before the race itself. Please check our event page for the specific date of the event you are looking to attend. Also you will be given updates for registration deadlines and new events via our newsletters. Make sure that your email is on our list.

    Can Women Enter?

    The answer to this question is YES. CMC actually has the highest women to men ratio of all the adventure races in the industry. We are proud to say that CMC is made up of 40% female competitors.  

    Can Children Enter?

    Yes, we recommend all the participants to be 14 years of age or older. However, anyone under the age of 18 must have a signed waiver and a legal guardian present at all times during the race.

      Are journalists really allowed to compete for free?

      Yes, if you are a journalist and you will be writing any articles in regard to the CMC event you are participating in, please email us at info@civilianmilitarycombine.com, with more information. We would like to know more about what your article will be on and where it will be published.

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      SPECTATORS

      Do I have to register to be a spectator at the Civilian Military Combine event?

      No, the CMC events are open, free of charge, to everyone that would like to come watch and support his/her friends and family that are competing in the race.

      I am a participant and now I want to spectate.  Is that ok?

      Yes, all participants are welcome to stay and watch the race after they have finished. There will be many great vendors and an amazing atmosphere for you to enjoy after the race.

      How do I get around as a spectator?

      As a spectator, you will be able to see the racers at different obstacles from different places. There will be specially marked paths for you to walk around and enjoy the action. Please make sure that you have safe and comfortable shoes because the CMC events take place on different terrenes.

      NOTE: Some of the CMC series take place on Ski mountains where you will have access to chair lifts which will take you to different parts of the mountain to spectate. Minimal charges may apply to buy the lift ticket. This is up to the venue itself and will be states previous to the race.

      How old do I have to be to be a spectator?

      There is no age requirement for spectators. CMC welcomes spectators of all ages.

      What can spectators bring?

      Spectators are welcome to bring any and all means of photography. We suggest that spectators also bring the proper footwear, which will make it easier for to them to move throughout the course. We encourage spectators as well as participants to check the weather for the day of the event and to bring the proper clothing. I.E. Rain gear, warm clothing, gloves, hats extra layers, etc.

      Can I bring a camera or video record?

      Yes, you can bring a camera or video recorder to any of the CMC events. We encourage you to take pictures and videos, and if you have any good ones that you would like to share with us, please do so. We always like to see how our competitors and spectators enjoy the CMC events.

      Can I bring bike, four-wheeler or anything similar?

      No, these types of vehicles will not be allowed at the CMC events.

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      START TIMES & FINISHING TIMES

      What time does the event starts?

      Every CMC event starts at 10 am. Please check our event page where you will be able to find information for each individual event. Please note that a CMC newsletter will be sent prior to the event with all the necessary information.

      What is the total number of starting groups and when do they start?

      This number may vary, depending on the number of participants signed up for the event. There are usually heats of 80 to 100 people going out of the PIT every 7 to 10 minutes.

      How do I find out my start time?

      During the registration process, you will be able to select your start time. Two weeks prior to the event you will also receive an email that will have your exact start time, as well as all the information that you will need for race day.

      How will my finishing time be recorded?

      A the day of the event, when you pick up our registration package, you will find a timing device in it. This timing device is placed around your ankle or wrist and is activated in the start of the race when you cross the starting line. When you cross the finish line, it will then capture your exact and this way we measure your finishing time.

      NOTE: All timing devices must be given back at the end of the race before exiting the finish line

      Is there a time limit for completing a Civilian Military Combine?

      No, there is no time limit on completing a Civilian Military Combine event. However, if any combiner is found on the course as dusk begins to near they may be pulled from course by a course marshal.

      What is the average finishing time?

      There is not an average finishing time. It all depends on the series, course and location of the event you are participating in. 

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      TEAM REGISTRATION

      How big can my team be?

      For a team to be considered for the team scoring and team awards in a CMC event, there must be at least 3 people on the team. CMC does not have a max on the team sizes, however we recommend keeping the team’s size small because the overall performance of the team is calculated as an average of all the team members.

      Can the size of the teams be changed?

      Yes, the size of the team can be changed up to 8 days before the event. New people can register for the team during the registration process. Also people that already registered as individuals, can be added to a team up to 8 days prior to the event.

      NOTE: If the heat in which the team is competing is full, may prevent the adding of new participants. CMCHQ will try to accommodate all participants, but we do not guarantee that a person will be added to a team after the heat has been filled.

      If I register in a team and they can’t make it what will happen?

      If your teammates are unable to make it on race day that is ok. You still will be able to compete at the CMC race. At the end when the final scores are calculated, you will be listed as an individual and you will be allegeable only for the individual awards.

       Are teams required to finish as one?

      At the CMC events, teams are NOT required to finish together, however that is up to you to decide as a team. Because of the scoring structure of the CMC races, strategy comes into play within teams. As a team you can separate at the starting line and allow your faster runners to take off and do the race at their place. Or you can all run together and help each other throughout the course. The team score is based off the average of all the members’ PIT reps and run time, if a person on the team finishes faster that will bring the average time down for your entire team.

       

      How do I register for the correct ream if there are multiple teams with the exactly the same name?

      Within the system there cannot be more than one team with the same name per event. If you are not sure which is the right team, please check with the ream captain or other teammates for the right spelling of the team name, if there are specific symbols and numbers, before you register.
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      TRANSFERRING EVENTS

      Can I switch events?

      Yes, you can switch an event. It must be done at least 14 days before the event you are currently registered for. When you switch to a new event, there will be $20 transfer fee, plus additional ticket price increase.

       Is there a charge for switching an event or transferring my ticket?

      Yes, there is a charge for switching or transferring an event. If you switch an event, there will be $20 transfer fee, plus additional ticket price increase. If you transfer the registration to a new person, there will be $20 transfer fees. Both must be done at least 14 days prior to the event you are currently registered for.

      What is the deadline to transfer to a new event?

       The deadline to transfer to a new event is 14 days prior to the event you are currently registered for.

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      VOLUNTEERS

      How old do I have to be to volunteer?

      You must be at least 14 years old to be a volunteer at any of the CMC events. Anyone under the age of 18 must have a signed parental approval to volunteer.

      I want to volunteer, how do I do that?

      To register as a volunteer, please visit our volunteer page, to find the volunteer form. Please fill out all the required information and we will get in touch with you.

      I have not heard from the Volunteer Coordinator yet. What do I do?

      If you have not heard from the Volunteer Coordinator 14 days prior to the event you are registered to volunteer for, do not be alarmed. All Volunteer Information will be sent out to ALL volunteers 7 to 14 days before the event they are volunteering at.

      What do I get as a volunteer?

      As a volunteer you will get free breakfast and lunch. You will also receive a free CMC Staff t-shirt as well as a promo code that will give you discount of any upcoming CMC event.

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