Manitou Springs looking for new event ambassadors, testing at annual coffin races

MANITOU SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- Manitou Springs is looking for ambassadors for its annual Emma Crawford Coffin Races.

The city says it is looking for Manitou Event Ambassadors who are interested in being a "friendly, visible presence" to welcome attendees, observe the surroundings, and report any concerns to event staff or law enforcement.

Manitou Springs Police Department (MSPD), who released the information, says the role is being tested at the 2026 Coffin Races for future events.

The coffin races were at risk of being cancelled earlier this year, due to a gap in available MSPD personnel to manage the event. At the time, Police Chief Bill Otto asked for 15 more police officers to keep the coffin races safe.

The council gave the go-ahead for the 15 additional officers, but KRDO13 reported at the time it would cost almost $10,000 to bring in the additional Colorado Rangers. The city council says the money would be split between city funds, Visit Manitou Springs and a fundraiser that took place in June.

Officials say applicants for the new ambassador program will have to complete a mandatory training, sign a waiver and release of liability before the event. The training takes place in October, before the event at the end of the month.

Applications are available on the MSPD Facebook page. Paper applications are also available at the Visit Manitou Springs front office.

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