Running USA Celebrates Its 10th Year

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – (March 13, 2009) – On this day, March 13th, ten years ago in Los Angeles, Running USA was launched by leading figures and events in U.S. distance running with USA Track & Field in an historic partnership. From its original press release, the national industry non-profit organization was created to improve "the status of road racing in the United States through collective marketing and promotions, services to runners and events and the development of American world class stars."

"It is hard to believe that ten years has already passed since our formation, but we look back – with pride and passion – at our successes and development, and moreover, with initiatives such as "20 in 10" – 20 million race participants in 10 years, we look ahead with our members, sponsors and partners to further grow and promote the vibrant sport that we know and love," said Allan Steinfeld, Running USA's first and long-standing president.

Since its inception in March 1999, Running USA's ten major accomplishments to build and promote the sport include:

1) jump started the U.S. distance running resurgence
2) established Team Running USA which led to two Olympic medals and many other noteworthy achievements
3) the resource center and clearinghouse for the sport and media
4) annual running industry conference – the sport's largest
5) the Running USA wire – twice weekly news on the sport
6) the Running USA E-News – weekly industry news
7) annual marathon and State of the Sport reports – widely cited
8) grown from 51 Founding Members to more than 250 members
9) the coordination and promotion of youth running programs – RunningRocks.com
10) comprehensive Runner Rankings with Active.com – 5 million runner performances in 2008

Ryan Lamppa, Media Director
(805) 696-6232 phone
(805) 696-6232 fax
ryan@runningusa.org email