Back to Boston: Running USA CEO Statement By: Rich Harshbarger, Running USA Date: April 21, 2014

One year ago today, our sport and industry was rocked by a deliberate, deadly act of senseless violence that shocked and angered the nation and world. Immediately, the running community and Americans at-large responded with an outpouring of love and support for those injured and impacted.

On our blog in the tumultuous days after the event, we wrote: "The people who produce running events and road races in this country are some of the best people there are. They are kind, compassionate, logical, smart business people.

They work in an industry that brings out the best in its participants. Everything they do, every decision they make, is for the runners."

 

In the 12 months since this incident, our sport has worked hard to ensure that participants and attendees are as safe as possible when they run or attend a race. Whether your race is a 500-person local 5K or a major marathon produced by a large production company, the emphasis on safety and security is equally important.

 

 

At Running USA, our mission has been to support the hundreds of races throughout the nation that make up our membership. During our sold-out 11th annual conference in San Diego this year, we held numerous sessions that focused on safety, planning, communication and liability protection.

And the closing session of the event was led by Boston Marathon race director Dave McGillivray, who spoke emotionally about his personal experiences on that life-changing day one year ago. "There are no mistakes, only lessons learned," he told us. We have all learned important lessons from last year's tragedy.

 

We value our role as a clearinghouse for exchanging and sharing information about the sport and industry of running, which we all hold so dearly. Today, we would like to congratulate the Boston Marathon, Boston Athletic Association, sponsors and volunteers who produce such a world class, inspiring event.

To the runners and spectators – have a wonderful day in Boston. We are all rooting for you. Together, we are Boston Strong!

 

From time to time. I would like to use this space to share thoughts about our sport/industry and profile races, trends, technology and issues that impact the business of running.

If you would like to contact me, please email rich@runningusa.org

 

By: Rich Harshbarger, Running USA Date: April 21, 2014