August 14, 2024 – Running USA, the nonprofit trade organization for the running industry, announces the release of a new timely Industry Insights report, which covers the largest standalone races and multi-event weekends, 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, and marathons for the first half of 2024. This report provides a look at growth trends in events, highlighting significant increases in participation across various distances.
In this new data set, Running USA examines the performance of races in the first six months of 2024 and compares them to the same period in 2023. The findings reveal that many events have experienced impressive double-digit growth percentages, with some surpassing pre-pandemic participation levels. This surge reflects the industry’s ongoing recovery and continued expansion, providing a strong indicator of renewed vitality within the running community.
“The numbers don’t lie,” said Jay Holder, Running USA’s Executive Director. “In communities from coast to coast, more Americans are signing up for road races than they were last year. That’s because event organizers and their partners are delivering experiences in which everyone from beginners to elite runners want to take part.”
The report, made possible through Running USA’s collaboration with Athlinks, aggregates finisher data from timed and scored events. It aims to instill confidence within the industry by showcasing successful races and offering insights into effective strategies. By identifying key growth drivers and best practices, the report serves as a valuable resource for event organizers seeking to replicate success and foster further growth.
The report is available at no charge to Running USA members of all levels (you must log into your runningusa.org account to reflect your membership status). Non-members can access the report for $99. Download the report here. For more trending research, please visit runningusa.org.
Running USA will host a panel discussion featuring representatives from four events that made the top 100 lists. Sign up here. Scheduled for Tuesday, August 27, this virtual session will provide attendees with firsthand insights from events that have achieved notable increases in participation. Panelists will share the strategies and practices that contributed to their success, offering actionable takeaways for other event organizers.
Panelists include:
● Dan Lakin, Sr. Event Operations Manager and Race Director, Ventures Endurance (Louisville Triple Crown of Running)
● Becky Radliff, Director of Marketing and Events, Eugene Marathon
● Ashlee Snider, Director of Marketing, Metropolitan Richmond Sports Backers (Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10K)
● Mike Wattigny, Marketing & Creative Director, Fresh Junkie (Louisiana Marathon)
This panel discussion is a unique opportunity for event organizers to learn from leading industry experts and gain valuable insights into achieving growth and success. Join the conversation.
About Running USA
Running USA is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the running industry across North America. As the premier trade organization, Running USA supports growth and innovation through education, research, and best practices. The organization fosters networking and collaboration among event organizers, sponsors, vendors, and athletes. Running USA is also part of a global alliance focused on enhancing the global running community, including affiliations with the Running Industry Alliance and European Athletics. For more information, visit runningusa.org.
