24th World Congress of AIMS Hanoi, Vietnam, November 2024

08:30–09:00 Arrival, reception and registration

09:00–09:10 Opening Ceremony

09:10–09:30 Welcome
by AIMS President, by Host City Representative and by Local Organising Committee

09:30–10:15 Presentation #1: Cultural Heritage and Marathon Running: Vietnam’s Unique Approach.
Discover how Vietnam integrates its rich cultural heritage with marathon events, creating unique experiences for runners and promoting cultural tourism.
Man Nguyen, Board of Management, DHA

Discover how Vietnam seamlessly integrates its rich cultural heritage with marathon events, creating unique and memorable experiences for runners while promoting cultural tourism. This presentation will explore the innovative ways in which Vietnamese marathons incorporate local traditions, historical landmarks, and cultural festivities into their race events. Attendees will learn about specific examples of marathons that feature traditional music, dance, and cuisine, offering participants an immersive cultural experience. The session will also discuss the benefits of this approach for the local economy, as it attracts both domestic and international tourists who are eager to explore Vietnam’s heritage. By combining athletic achievement with cultural celebration, Vietnam’s marathons not only enhance the runner’s experience but also foster greater appreciation and preservation of the nation’s cultural treasures.

10:15–10:45 Coffee Break and Networking

10:45–11:30 Presentation #2: Running, from the Movement to an Industry, European perspective

Marko Vasic, Running Unit Responsible, European Athletics

What trends do we see in 2024 that should shape us to be an industry going forward. Full Digitalisation of the work processes and need for SAP type of solutions. Mergers to secure cost effectiveness and market stability. Agreement on pricing at the right level across the industry. Diversification of events and services being marketed to the event focused runner. Trail running as the new marathon, do not miss the train. Unique branding strategy vs event franchising. Running cultures and brand typology (Hero, Citizen, Explorer, Adventurer).

11:30–12:15 Presentation #3: Tech on the Track: Leveraging AI for the Next Generation of Race Organization
Discover how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing race organization, from enhancing runner experiences to streamlining event logistics.
Jorge Maravilla, COO and CMO, Neurun (USA)
Jorge is the COO and CMO of Neurun, an innovative AI race concierge. With a background as a former professional runner, co-founder of a premium specialty running store, and former Global Marketing Director of Trail Running at Salomon, he brings a broad understanding across various sectors of the outdoor industry, driving innovation and transformation through AI.

Discover how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing race organization with insights from Jorge Maravilla, chief operating officer of Neurun (USA). This presentation will explore the transformative impact of AI on the marathon and race industry, focusing on how it enhances runner experiences and streamlines event logistics. Attendees will learn about cutting-edge AI technologies that provide personalized training plans, real-time performance analytics, and immersive race-day experiences for participants. The session will also cover the operational benefits of AI, such as optimizing route planning, improving safety measures, and automating administrative tasks. By leveraging AI, race organizers can deliver more eeicient, engaging, and data-driven events, setting new standards for the future of marathon organization. This presentation will oeer a glimpse into the next generation of race management and the potential for AI to drive innovation in the sports event industry.

12:15–13:15 Lunch break

13:15–14:00 Presentation #4: Healthy Races, Healthy Planet: Examining the Eco-Impact of Mass-Sport Events
Delve into the intersection of health and environmental stewardship, discussing how marathons can contribute to both a healthier populace and a healthier planet.
Dr Shawnda Morrison, Senior Research Fellow at the National University of Singapore (SGP)
Dr Karim Abu-Omar, Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (GER)

This presentation delves into the intersection of health and environmental stewardship, exploring whether marathons can contribute to both a healthier populace and a healthier planet. What is the environmental footprint of mass-sporting events? Attendees will consider the eco-impact of mass-sport events and learn about innovative practices that may help reduce environmental footprints. The discussion will highlight case studies of mass sporting events, that have successfully integrated eco-friendly practices, whilst also showcasing the travel repercussions these initiatives exert on both the community and the environment. By prioritizing a OneHealth approach, marathons have the potential to inspire broader environmental awareness and action among its participants and spectators alike. This session will provide valuable insights into how race organizers can balance the dual goals of promoting health and protecting the planet, ultimately contributing to creating a more sustainable future for mass-sport events.

14:00–15:00 Annual AIMS Reports
Reflecting on Achievements and Looking Ahead

Membership report and financial report by Paco Borao and Al Boka · Communication report by Gary Friar · Marketing report by Teddy Okomura · Technical report by Rachid Ben Meziane · Women’s Commission, Children’s races by Martha Morales

15:00–15:30 Coffee Break and Networking

15:30–16:15 Nomination Presentations for Board Election and for President Election

16:15–16:45 Proposals for Hosting the 25th World Congress of AIMS

16:45–17:00 Proposed Amendments to the Articles of Association

16:45–17:00 Time for Group Photo

18:00–21:00 Welcome dinner

08:30–09:00 Arrival Reception and Networking

09:00–09:45 Presentation #5: India’s Marathon Movement: Transforming Mass Participation Events

Vivek Singh, Joint Managing Director, Procam International

Discover how India has transformed its marathon landscape into a vibrant platform for mass participation events, driving social change and promoting a culture of health and fitness. India has witnessed a remarkable surge in marathon running, turning mass participation events into catalysts for social transformation and community engagement. Vivek Singh, Joint Managing Director of Procam International, will share insights into how marathons in India have evolved from niche sporting events to large-scale phenomena that unite diverse populations across the nation. The presentation will delve into the strategies employed by Procam International to engage communities, promote health and wellness, and leverage technology for enhanced runner experiences. Attendees will learn about the challenges and successes in organizing some of the largest marathons in the world, such as the Tata Mumbai Marathon and the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon.

09:45–10:30 Presentation #6: AIMS’ sponsors presentations

Health (Mr Wang Dong) · RunJapan · Always Advancing (Mr John Fritz) · Marathon Photos (Mr Daniel Parker and Mr Francis Kay)

10:30–11:00 Coffee Break and Networking

11:00–12:00 Panel Discussions
Session 1: Women in running – Panellists: Martha Morales, Tangamanga Marathon (MEX); Renna Nelis, LHV Women’s Run (EST); Rut Jiroajvanichakorn, Bangasaen42 (THA); Session 2: Mass-sport events for people with disability and limited access – Panellists: Mike Nishi, Bank of America Chicago Marathon (USA); Vivek Singh, (IND); Erik Juhl Mogensen, HCA Marathon (DEN)

This panel discussion will focus on the inclusion and empowerment of women in running and the importance of creating accessible mass-sport events for people with disabilities and limited access. Expert panelists will share their insights and experiences on breaking barriers and promoting gender equality in the world of marathon running. The discussion will also address the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and those from underserved communities in participating in mass-sport events. Attendees will learn about successful initiatives and best practices for making races more inclusive and accommodating, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate and enjoy the benefits of running. The session aims to inspire race organizers to adopt inclusive policies and practices, fostering a more diverse and equitable running community.

12:00–13:00 Lunch Break

13:00–14:30 Interactive session

14:30–15:00 Coffee Break and Networking

15:00–15:45 Summary of interactive session

15:45–16:30 Presentation #7: Learning from the successful experience of SuperHalfs

Sasho Belovski, Managing Director SuperHalfs, RunCzech (CZE)

This presentation will delve into the strategic planning, execution, and unique features that have made SuperHalfs a standout in the world of marathon running. Attendees will learn about the collaborative efforts between five major half marathons in different European cities, creating a series that not only promotes running but also encourages international travel and cultural exchange. Sasho will highlight key achievements, challenges faced, and innovative solutions that have contributed to the series‘ success. The session will provide valuable lessons on building and managing a cohesive multi-race series, emphasizing the importance of partnerships, marketing, and delivering a high-quality runner experience. This presentation will be particularly beneficial for race organizers looking to create or enhance their own marathon series.

18:00–19:00 Water Puppet Show

20:00–22:00 Gala Dinner

09:00–09:30 Final Presentation of Bids & Voting
A brief recap of the bids for the next Congress location, followed by member voting.

09:30–10:00 Board Election Voting
Voting session for new Board members.

10:00–10:30 Announcement of Voting Results
Presentation of election outcomes and bid selection results.

10:30–10:45 Closing Ceremony
Final remarks and the official closing of the Congress

11:00–12:00 Breaks and hotel check-out

12:00–13:30 Lunch

13:30–16:00 Move to Halong City

16:00–16:30 Opening Ceremony of the Halong Bay Heritage Marathon

16:30–17:45 Move to hotel and check-in

17:45–18:30 Move from hotel to the Sun harbour Halong

18:30–21:00 Enjoy Dinner on Cruise

04:00–10:30 Halong Bay Heritage Marathon
Start/Finish line: The Quang Ninh Exhibition of Planning and Expo Center, Tran Quoc Nghien street, Ha Long city. Runners are required to be at the Start line 30 minutes before the start of the race.

Source. AIMS – Distance Running Magazine