I volunteered for 3 years leading up to my first triathlon on a regular basis. I have volunteered at 3 iron-distance races and that is a great day...

You will love every minute of it, I promise you that....

I haven't volunteered yet, but the organization that does a lot of tri's around here just started a volunteer program where I can earn the equivalent of $8/hr credit towards an entry into another race they organize. I've heard it's an excellent way to learn more about the small details, especially transition.

I volunteer quite a bit. I bring along as many of my 3 daughters as I can. I enjoy the heck out of race day, even if I'm only spectating. With the girls along for the ride, I get to let them see how exciting and wonderful racing can be. It's working. They're each catching The Bug. Their favorite place to volunteer is a run course water station. The girls are proficient at proper cup handling techniques. The bike course is great too. I hold off cars, while they direct the racers. My personal favorite is bike in/out mount/dismount. The girls keep asking if they can be on swim detail one day. I don't see that one happening any time soon...

But I digress. Volunteering is great. It gives back to a sport that wouldn't happen without other peoples' help. You get the chance to not just cheer friends on, but actually help them race well. And it lets you see just how other people do it. It's actually a great way to watch the sport in action, and learn from viewing.