INSIDE TRACK
SUMMER 2011
Quarterly Newsletter for the Members of the Road Runners Club of America IN THIS ISSUE: ♦
There’s a Fee for That
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53rd Annual Convention Recap
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Bid for RRCA Championship Events Start a Kids Run the Nation Program And more
RRCA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Brent Ayer President David Cotter Vice President Dennis Novak Treasurer Dan Edwards Secretary, At-Large Director Mark Grandonico Eastern Region Director Mitchell Garner Central Region Director Lena Hollmann Southern Region Director Bailey Penzotti Western Region Director Kelly Richards At-Large Director
THERE’S A FEE FOR THAT By: Jim Ferstle As what the media has labeled, “The Great Recession” continues to impact everyone in the world, a “trickle-down” impact on road race events could be increased fees for not only goods, but for services provided by cities and municipalities. The most publicized being that in 2012 the New York City Police Department will charge organizers of the New York City marathon and other “noncharitable athletic parades” for the cost of controlling traffic and other services associated with shutting down roads. As Jeff Darman, former RRCA president and race director of the ACLI Capital Challenge in Washington, DC, notes, the era of free city services for races may well be disappearing. “The days of freebies are gone,” said Darman. The challenge today is to avoid the “cash cow syndrome” where others view road races, which have continued to grow and prosper during tough economic times, as a solution to their budget woes and levy fees that are not commensurate with the services delivered. “It’s a reality check,” said Tracy Sundlun, Senior VP for Events for the Competitor Group, who was one of the founders of the Rock ‘n Roll Marathon and HalfMarathon series. “Many of us started in (road running) as an avocation, but clearly now for many of us it is a business…and it must be treated as a business. The New York City Marathon, for example, is a huge economic engine for the city. They estimate that the race’s economic impact on the city is over a quarter of a billion dollars…While all of our events are smaller, many have huge economic impact for the markets they are in. It is important that we treat them as businesses and that we insist that our host cities do so, too. You have to ask the questions: What am I really bringing to town? What is (the event) really worth to my city? What is their real ROI (return on investment) for what I am asking them to contribute? You have to sell your event for all that it is worth, but you have to be realistic and try to create a win-win situation for all parties.” “Obviously building relationships is a key ingredient,” says Phil Stewart, race director of the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10-mile and publisher of Road Race Management. “Ever since Fred Lebow pioneered the city-wide event concept, cities have become increasingly aware that they are in possession of a valuable asset -- the city streets -- and they are basically selling that asset via permitting and other municipal fees. Organizers have countered that it is in the city's best interest to grant permits at reasonable fees because of the economic impact of the event. This is why you see so many events trumpet their economic impact, sometimes with wildly-inflated figures. I am concerned that in an era of tight budgets, cities will be looking for ways to squeeze more money out of events be it in the area of municipal fees or more aggressive enforcement of sales-tax laws, etc. Clearly they are leaving no stone unturned.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear RRCA Members,
As we approached the start of summer, the Road Runners Club of America wrapped up its 53rd Annual Convention. Held in Fredericksburg, Virginia and hosted by the Fredericksburg Area Road Runners Club and the Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, the convention will be remembered for its exceptional friendliness, well-organized presentations, and the inspirational message of Billy Mills. In addition, the convention marked a change on the national board of directors. Western Region Director David Epstein stepped down after his long service to the organization. David was a pleasure to work with and his efforts were characterized by careful reflection and thoughtful analysis of our sometimes contentious issues. He was replaced by Bailey Penzotti of the San Francisco Road Runners Club. An attorney, Bailey has served as Volunteer Coordinator and Coach for the SFRRCA, as well as a key contributor for the very successful convention a couple of years back in San Francisco. Even as we emerged from the Convention, the RRCA has been busy. In late May, RRCA members hosted 50 Weight Watchers Walk-It Day 5K events, and in early July we announced a new class of a half-dozen promising Roads Scholars. Check them out, these are the emerging stars you will one day see winning U.S. championships! Looking for something to do this summer? How about organizing a RUN@WORK Day event for our national roll-out on September 16? Or how about looking into establishing a Kids Run The Nation program for your community? Has your community done a great job helping support your efforts? Why not recognize them with an RRCA “Runner Friendly Community” Award? Whatever you do, stay hydrated, run smart, and stay safe. I hope you are having a great summer.
Keep Running, BRENT AYER RRCA President SUPPORT THE RRCA A financial contribution to the RRCA from you, your club, or your events supports our programs such as the Kids Run Grant program, the Roads Scholar program, the Runner Friendly Community program, and much more. You support enables us to develop, improve, and implement valuable programs that benefit the running community. Give today! Mail your contribution to RRCA, 1501 Lee Hwy, Ste 140, Arlington, VA 22201
Support
Give online at: www.RRCA.org/about/support/
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Support
Support
THERE’S A FEE FOR THAT CONTINUED
As Stewart notes, it is the relationships between the various municipal units and the race organization that is a critical element in the equation. The New York Road Runners, for example, was able to at least delay any fee hikes that could have been levied in 2011 into 2012 so they have time to build any increases into next year’s budget. Darman notes that it is critical for clubs and race organizations to be “proactive” in forming those critical relationships with municipal groups. “Develop the relationships before you need something,” he says. Also, know what you have to bring to the bargaining table and use your resources—the race participants, sponsors, etc.—to let those you need to influence know. Urge participants and those involved with the race to write, lobby, and thank the various municipal agencies and politicians for helping make the races possible. Darman adds, know which questions not to ask. For example, if you know the head of a department is more inclined to turn down your request, but your relationship with the workers responsible for doing what you need done are not, submit your request to them, not their bosses. Virginia Brophy Achman, who heads Twin Cities in Motion, the organization that puts on the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon and other major running events in Minnesota says, “We actually work directly with the Minneapolis Park Board to put on a race together, to help build that relationship, and we advertise some of their other events for them.” The Huntsville Track Club in Alabama does similar things working with city groups to support their programs and parks, “giving back to the community.” In Chicago, Carey Pinkowski, executive race director of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and Shamrock Shuffle, takes care to have good relationships with the Mayor, alderman, and the various city agencies they work with to put on those events. Pinkowski notes that as race director he is “the face of the marathon.” He takes a hands-on approach to doing the pre-race course inspections with the city officials and the other “street level stuff” that is necessary to ensure good working relations, as well as a smooth functioning race. In an effort to be aware of issues that may impact the events, Pinkowski tries to attend the bi-weekly traffic meetings held by city staffers. Carl Sniffen has the unique perspective of being a past RRCA president. He has been involved in races and events, as well as working as a deputy attorney for Grants Pass, Oregon, his hometown. “Develop a relationship with your local jurisdictions,” he says. “Know the decision makers.” Knowing the decision makers can make this easier. A few items include: follow what is going on in government; look at the government websites on a regular basis; quantify what impact your event has on the local economy and talk with tourism department heads or chamber of commerce leaders to learn how to measure hotels, meals, etc. “Why are these things important? Things don’t happen in a vacuum,” Sniffen comments. He explained that his city recently revised the special events ordinance. Part of that ordinance gives the city the ability to charge back for services that it provides. The ordinance was in development for over two years, including three or four council workshops, posting of the draft ordinance on the web site, and post card mailings to every entity that had hosted a special event in the last two years. We also met with special event groups to gain their input. The Council reacted positively to the efforts we undertook to let people know what we were doing. Sniffen further outlined that while governments are sensitive to revenues, expenses and budgets, they also don’t want to be seen as the entity that did something to disrupt an event that brings bodies and dollars into a community. If an event can quantify its positive economic impact, it has more leverage when recommending changes to proposed legislation or receiving waivers or other benefits to help offset the increased costs. CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
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THERE’S A FEE FOR THAT CONCLUDED
Scott Kennan, race director of Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, MN, goes a step further. In years past, Kennan ran for and was elected to the Duluth City Council. He has city officials on the Board of Directors for Grandma’s Marathon. A member of the Grandma’s staff is on the Canal Park Business Association. Keenan often uses the slogan, “The community owns Grandma’s Marathon. All we do is drive the bus.” “As with any business, it is important to know, not only your worth, but your options,” says Tracy Sundlun. “Historically, road running events have “undersold” what they deliver to the participants.” He notes that Fred Lebow would tout the fact that the contents of the runners’ “goodie bag” was worth $42 dollars for a $35 entry fee. “What kind of business does that?” questioned Sundlun. “Would you sell something that you made for $5 for $3? We set some very bad precedents.” So, do race organizers simply pass on the costs for fee increases in higher entry fees? Do they cut costs elsewhere? Or do you look at more radical solutions such as changing the course to decrease fees. These are all options that can be considered. As Sundlun notes, even the Boston Marathon, the race most closely linked with its history, has had to change its route and time schedule a bit over the years. The key here being that if you believe you have to make radical changes don’t forget who your “customers” are. Keep them informed of the options; let them be part of the decision making process. Explain why the changes have to be made, and “sell it” to them if necessary. Tough times often call for tough decisions, and you can’t be afraid to make them.
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2011 RRCA CONVENTION MIXES HISTORY & OLYMPIC PRESENCE By Ron Macksoud, Alabama State Rep If you didn’t make the 2011 RRCA Annual Convention here a few tidbits you missed:
• • • • • • • • •
Fredericksburg, Virginia, is overflowing with Civil War history FARC is not a dirty word A former RRCA president is still minding her manners. Billy Mills is friends with the actor who portrayed him in a movie The RRCA Board can wrap up a business meeting almost as fast as Usain Bolt can run 200 meters Gary Morgan really gets around Julie Isphording uses more props than Gallagher and is funnier The 2013 RRCA National Convention is heading west to a city that is no stranger to the convention And, comedian and The Price is Right host, Drew Carey, has “slimmed on down” and ran his first half marathon in an RRCA National Championship.
Nearly 200 people attended the 53rd Annual RRCA Convention in Fredericksburg, May 12-15, enjoying the hospitality and wide-ranging program of convention organizers Fredericksburg Area Running Club (FARC) and Marine Corps Marathon. Attendees were given a couple of opportunities to “run through history” with scenic fun runs in the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania Battlefields, site of Civil War skirmishes between Yankee and Confederate soldiers, as well as a trek through the downtown area. The RRCA Board and RRCA State Representatives even “met through history,” with work sessions in Historic Town Hall. The history theme was most prominent during the RRCA welcome reception at the Fredericksburg Area Museum featuring locals in authentic period garb. A topic that frequently generates questions from RRCA member clubs was addressed in the General Session on the first full day of the convention. Terry Diller, who has handled RRCA’s insurance program for 19 years, discussed Insurance & Risk Management. Among the break-out sessions that followed was a “Rules of the Road” seminar by “Miss Road Manners,” a.k.a., Freddi Carlip. RRCA’s president from 2000-2004 presented common sense running etiquette and safety tips appropriate for both the seasoned runner and those to new to running. Other breakout sessions included “Developing Marketing Strategies” and “Motivating Your Volunteers.
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2011 RRCA CONVENTION MIXES HISTORY & OLYMPIC PRESENCE The only American to win an Olympic gold medal in the 10,000 meters was the luncheon motivational speaker. Billy Mills was victorious in Tokyo’s 1964 Olympics. His feat was dramatized in the 1983 movie Running Brave starring Robby Benson. Mills says he became good friends with the actor and they ran road races together. “It’s not the journey,” said Mills in discussing life lessons learned. “It’s the destination.” Mills also stressed the potential impact of perceptions. “Perceptions can make you and perceptions can destroy you,” he said. The General Session Business Meeting concluded in about 15 minutes. Four RRCA directors for 2011-2013 were elected unanimously. Lena Hollmann (Southern Region Director), Kelly “K2” Richards (At-Large Director), and Dan Edwards (AtLarge Director) will be serving second terms on the RRCA Board, while Bailey Penzotti (Western Region Director) begins her first term. An evening outdoor barbecue with bluegrass music at Market Square in Fredericksburg capped the day. Mills hung around for the event, signing copies of his book and CD, and patiently honoring all “photo-op with a Gold medalist” requests. Race walking participant in the 1988 Seoul Olympics, Gary Morgan, was luncheon speaker. Morgan’s visual presentation covered highlights from his travels around the world from Antarctica to Africa. Morgan, RRCA Michigan State Representative, was recognized as 2010 Outstanding State Representative during the RRCA National Banquet and Running Awards Ceremony that evening. Following Gary’s motivational talk, the Monterey Bay Peninsula was awarded as the inaugural Outstanding Runner Friendly Community.
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2011 RRCA CONVENTION MIXES HISTORY & OLYMPIC PRESENCE Yet another Olympian, Julie Isphording, was the humorous banquet speaker. Isphording ran with the first-ever U.S. Women’s Olympic Marathon Team. She is an award-winning syndicated radio talk show host who focuses on fitness and nutritional advice. Isphording not only spoke to the audience, she showed them, pulling out items from a cardboard box to illustrate her topics, including a medal, running shoes, and tank top. “You have to bet on you,” she said. “Keep on keeping on in everything you do. You can’t cross the finish line unless you start.” Other award winners honored at the banquet included RRCA Distance Hall of Fame Inductees Bob Kennedy, Alan Culpepper, and Julie Emmons; Outstanding Club President of the Year, Chip Allman, River City Runners & Walkers, Parkersburg, West Virginia; Browning Ross Spirit of the RRCA Award-Ken Bendy, former RRCA Southern Region Director and North Florida State Representative; and Outstanding Volunteer of the Year-Dink Taylor, Huntsville (Alabama) Track Club. Steve Edwards was in attendance at the event to accept the Road Runner of the Year award on behalf of his wife, Shalane Flannagan. RRCA President, Brent Ayer, honored outgoing Western Region Director David Epstein for his many years of service to the RRCA Board of Directors. Jean Knaack, RRCA Executive Director, wrapped-up the evening by announcing the 2013 RRCA National Championship events, the 3rd Annual Race Shirt contest winner, and announced Albuquerque, New Mexico, as host city for the 2013 RRCA National Convention, which will follow Memphis, Tennessee as host city for the 54th RRCA National Convention in 2012. RRCA Convention 2011 concluded the following day with the Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Historic Half Relay and Semper Fred 5K. The half served as the RRCA Half Marathon National Championship. Drew Carey was among the notable finishers, along with second overall Todd Neville, North Florida RRCA State Representative.
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Overview Download the full Running Club Program guide at www.RRCA.org/resources-for-runners/ runDisney is proud to announce our Official Running Club Program! This exciting new program offers many benefits to your running club for participating in runDisney events, including the opportunity to compete against other running clubs for awards! Up c o m ing runDisney Events: • Wa lt Disney Wo rld ® M a ra tho n Weekend Ja nua ry 5 - 8, 2012
Official Running • Disney’s Princ ess Ha lf M a ra tho nClub Weekend Program • Tinker Bell Ha lf M a ra tho n Weekend Ja nua ry 27 - 29, 2012
Feb rua ry 24 - 26, 2012 • Disneyla nd ® Ha lf M a ra tho n Weekend Sep tem b er 2 - 4, 2011 • Disney Wine & Dine Ha lf M a ra tho n Weekend Sep tem b er 30 - Oc to b er 1, 2011 Elig ib ility • • •
You must be an established running club under RRCA Each club must submit an online application and be accepted into the Program by Disney Participation is subject to the Program’s terms and conditions
Benefits • • • •
$5 discount on 5K, Half Marathon, and Marathon race entry fees Eligible to compete in Running Club Challenges Two (2) guaranteed paid race entries for each race taking place during the weekend (subject to standard entry fees) Eligible for select discounts on other race weekend amenities where applicable
Rec ruitm ent Inc entives
As part of the Official Running Club Program, we can offer incentives to club organizers based on the number of members who participate in each Disney race. Incentives will vary based on which Disney races your club attends.
Reso urc es • •
Personal contact from the runDisney Team Assistance in planning group functions and social activities at runDisney events
Co nta c t Us
Contact Lauren Morningstar at 407-938-3414 or Lauren.Morningstar@disney.com for more details. SUBJECT TO CHANGE. ALL BENEFITS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY, AND MAY BE MODIFIED OR WITHDRAWN AT ANYTIME. PLEASE SEE PROGRAM TERMS AND CONDITIONS AT HTTP://ADISNEYWORLDSPORTS.DISNEY.GO.COM/MEDIA/EWWOS/CLUBTERMSANDCONDITIONS.PDF.
CHAMPIONSHIP EVENT SERIES BID PROCESS Â
Bidding is open the 2012 RRCA Regional and State Championship Events! The RRCA Championship designation is awarded on an annual basis. The 2012 National events have been selected, and we are now accepting bids for 2012 State and Regional Championships and the 2013 National Championships for the following distances: *5K * 10 K * 10 Mile * Half Marathon (13.1 miles) * Marathon (26.2 miles) * Ultra (any distance over 26.2 miles) * Cross Country (variable distance; only one event) State Reps and Regional Directors are may grant additional State or Regional Championships at different distances (upon request) after the standard distances have been filled. Only one championship designation will be awarded per event distance. INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Review the Championship Bidding Information & Instructions posted at www.rrca.org/programs/championships; 2. Determine the appropriate designation for your event: State or Regional Championship; 3. Complete the online bid form, print a copy for your records, then click submit. You will be notified of your bid status once championship designations are awarded. CHAMPIONSHIP BID SUBMISSION DEADLINES To ensure events have an opportunity to compete for all Championship designation levels, the deadlines for National, Regional and State Championship bids are staggered as follows: 2013 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP BID DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2012 Bids for National events are awarded a year in advance for marketing purposes. We are currently accepting bids for the 2013 National Championships. There is a $250 non-refundable marketing fee if awarded the National Championship designation. 2012 REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP BID DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 1ST There is no marketing fee. Regional bids not selected will be considered for State Championship designation. 2012 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP BID DEADLINE: OCTOBER 31ST There is no marketing fee. To ensure a full slate of standard race distances for the RRCA Championship Event Series any distance not designated after the bidding period will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis for qualified races. Bids will be accepted on an on-going basis for Championship distances not filled after the bid deadline and selection process. Any questions about bidding and the Championship designation can be addressed by sending an email to programs@rrca.org. RRCA Championship Events qualify for Gatorade (some exclusions apply), free race numbers sponsored by Fuel Belt, RRCA Championship plaques for National, Regional and select State Championships, Gift cards from Sports Authority for National and Regional Championships, and more.
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SAVE THE DATE: RUN@WORK DAY SEPTEMBER 16TH 6TH ANNUAL RUN@WORK DAY HOSTED BY THE ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA IS SEPTEMBER 16, 2011 The goal of RUN@WORK Day is to raise awareness about the importance of daily physical activity for adults. Company-based wellness programs, human resources departments, running clubs, running events, running shoe stores, and individuals nationwide are encouraged to plan fun runs and walks with their employers on September 16, 2011 to celebrate RUN@WORK Day. RUN@WORK Day events are community-based events that promote and provide the opportunity for individuals to incorporate at least 30-minutes of exercise into their daily routine either before work, during lunch, or immediately following work. Learn more about hosting a RUN@WORK Day event at www.RRCA.org/programs/run-at-work/. There you will find information about receiving FREE promotional posters, our downloadable fact sheet, sample press release for local events, planning kit, a link to share your event on Facebook, and more. As noted in the spring issue of Club Running magazine, the RRCA has partnered the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation to promote Your Wellness Advantage (www.YourWellnessadvantage.com), a free resource sponsored by the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation and the National Business Group on Health. Through this partnership, our organizations are working together to promote physical activity and healthy living for adults. A survey conducted by Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation in January 2011 found that only 28 percent of smaller companies (10-99 employees) had or were in the process of implementing workplace wellness programs compared to 78 percent of larger employers (100-2,499 employees). One of the reasons for this difference in adoption appears to be that smaller companies are not aware of the economic benefits of workplace wellness programs. Only 20 percent of smaller companies surveyed “strongly agreed” that program benefits exceed costs, compared with 38 percent of the larger employers surveyed. According to the National Business Group on Health, a non-profit industry advisory group, employers can realize up to $3.27 in financial benefits for every $1 invested in workplace wellness programs. On the bright side, more than 85 percent of small companies and 76 percent of larger employers that responded to the survey indicated an interest in developing running and walking clubs. Be sure to share these important facts with your employer as you plan your RUN@WORK Day event! Download this RUN@WORK Day ad or the RUN@WORK Day logo at www.RRCA.org/services/branding to post on your website.
When:
! September 16, 2011
Why: To encourage Americans to incorporate at least 30-minutes of running or walking into their daily routine to improve their overall health and fitness.
www.rrca.org/programs/run-at-work-day/ Learn how to host a RUN@WORK Day event in your town, and learn how to get FREE RUN@WORK Day promotional posters.
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RACING SYSTEM ®
2011 SPECIAL RRCA PRICING PROGRAM DETAILS
ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA
RAINBOW RACING SYSTEM ® RACE NUMBERS & SUPPLIES ®
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TURN AROUND TIME Custom numbers are generally received within 3-4 weeks of ordering. Orders requiring less than the standard production time will incur a rush production charge. Please contact us to determine if rush production is possible and what charges may apply.
GENERIC NUMBERS & SUPPLIES Â&#x2021; $OO JHQHULF QXPEHUV DQG VXSSOLHV DUH DOZD\V LQ VWRFN DQG DYDLODEOH IRU LPPHGLDWH VKLSPHQW Â&#x2021; RII DOO JHQHULF QXPEHUV DQG VXSSOLHV Â&#x2021; 3OHDVH VHH FDWDORJ SDJHV RU JR RQOLQH WR ZZZ UDLQERZUDFLQJ FRP *HQHULF KWP to see our selection of generic numbers and supplies.
PAYMENT Payment is required prior to shipping. Visa, Mastercard, Discover  DQG $PHULFDQ ([SUHVV FDUGV DFFHSWHG DV ZHOO DV FRPSDQ\ FKHFNV
RRCA PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT
NATIONAL OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION PROGRAM The success of the RRCA and our member clubs and events is based on volunteerism. In recognition of these volunteers, the RRCA developed the National Outstanding Volunteer Recognition program. The purpose of the RRCA Outstanding Volunteer Recognition program is to shine a spotlight on individuals that have volunteered over 2000 hours of their time, over a period of time, to the sport of running. Club presidents, volunteer coordinators, or race directors can submit the names of 3 individuals per year, per club or event, for the outstanding volunteer recognition program. Submissions will be collected throughout the year, and all recipients will receive a certificate and commemorative patch. These items will be mailed near the end of the year. National Outstanding Volunteer recipients will be announced in the RRCA News during National Volunteer Month in April. We invite you to recognize your outstanding volunteers. Submit their information using our online National Outstanding Volunteer Recognition Form found at www.rrca.org/programs/volunteer-recognition-program/.
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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S NOTE
Dear RRCA Members, In the ever-evolving world of technology and social networking, there are many different ways to connect with your club members, event participants, and the RRCA. You can follow the RRCA through Twitter and Facebook by simply clicking on our links at the bottom of any page on our website. Show your support for our programs by “liking” them on Facebook. Use our “share” feature on the website to share news about the RRCA through your social networking accounts. If you have videos posted on YouTube about your club or events, share them with the RRCA. We can feature them in our YouTube account as well. Be sure to syndicate the RRCA News on your club’s website. Learn more at www.rrca.org/services/news/syndication/. As a community of dedicated runners with a strong desire to promote our sport as the most inspiring human competition and running as a healthy lifestyle choice, our continued efforts to network together are important. This connection between everyone in the RRCA membership (clubs, events, individuals, and corporate supporters) will help us with our efforts to nationally promote running as a sport and healthy lifestyle. The RRCA uses the service of www.Issuu.com for posting Club Running and Inside Track on our website. We encourage our members to utilize the link http://issuu.com/rrcaexecdir/ and embed issues of Club Running and/or Inside Track on your club’s website. By embedding RRCA publications on your website, you can help the RRCA better promote our programs with your members and connect them with their national organization. We also encourage you to post your club or event newsletters in the RRCA group at http://issuu.com/groups/rrca to build a national database of running club newsletters that can be viewed by readers around the world. Happy Running,
Find back issues of Inside Track online at www.rrca.org/publications/inside-track/
Grab your blue suede shoes and save the date for the
54th Annual RRCA Convention Memphis, TN March 15 – 18, 2012
Hosted by the Memphis Runners Track Club Details about the event can be found at: www.RRCAConvention.org
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START THE 2011-2012 SCHOOL YEAR OFF RIGHT
START A KIDS RUN THE NATION PROGRAM IN YOUR COMMUNITY The RRCA has a vision to see an organized youth running program in every grade school in the country. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lofty goal, we know! There are over 30,000 public grade schools in the US. However, with the help of RRCA member running clubs, events, and dedicated individuals, we can make this vision a reality. Why is our goal so important? Over the last twenty years, the overweight and obesity statistics for youth has soared. One-third of American children are overweight and nearly 20 percent are considered obese putting them at risk for life long chronic disease. There is a solution to this problem! The solution is regular, sustained, physical activity for youth several days a week through the Kids Run the Nation program. Our program is a turnkey, multiweek, gender inclusive, royalty-free, youth running program designed to provide 60-minutes of physical activity several days a week for children in grades kindergarten through sixth grade. In September, the RRCA will launch the 2nd edition of the Kids Run the Nation Program Guide. In three short years we have circulated 2,500 copies of the Guide and almost 15,000 copies of the Kids Run the Nation: A Running Guide for Kids booklets. The 2nd edition of the Kids Run the Nation Guide offers ten lesson plans, compared to the eight lessons offered in the 1st edition, that can be implemented over an 8 to 10-week period. RRCA members are encouraged to obtain copies of the Program Guide, share them with schools in their communities, and work with parents and teachers to implement youth running programs. Help us circulate 2,500 copies of the Guide during the coming school year! Order you copy of the Kids Run the Nation Guide today at www.RRCA.org/programs/kids-run-the-nation-program/. In conjunction with the 2nd edition of the Program Guide, the RRCA has partnered with RunClubSignUp.com to launch the new Kids Club management tool. The Kids Club management tool can be found at www.RRCA.org/programs/kids-run-the-nation-program/program-directors/. This new tool features an online registration system for program directors that is free of charge if the program does not charge a registration fee for students. A small processing fee will apply for programs that charge a fee to participants. The Kids Club also features the free national youth running log. This mileage log is a very important enhancement to our program, but youth program can use these online resources. In fact we encourage all youth running programs to utilize our Kids Club management tool to help the RRCA determine the collective number of students participating annually in youth running programs along with their collective miles run.
SUPPORT THE KIDS RUN THE NATION FUND In 2010, RRCA supporters gave over $10,000 to the Kids Run the Nation Fund, which was granted to deserving youth running programs around the country. Each year the RRCA receives over 40 grant applications for programs that collectively serve over 35,000 children annually. The demand for small grants to establish youth running programs is great, yet the financial support to meet the demand still lags behind. Your support for the Kids Run the Nation Fund will enable the RRCA to double our grant making efforts compared to 2010. For 2011, the RRCA is in a position to give $15,000 in Kids Run the Nation Grants and potentially more based on support for the Fund through the rest of the year. Help us reach our $20,000 goal for 2011. Please consider making the Kids Run the Nation Fund your charity of choice for 2011. We are currently accepting Kids Run the Nation grant applications through October 1, 2011. Apply today at www.RRCA.org/programs/kids-run-the-nation-fund/. Learn how to give to this important RRCA program on page 2.
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ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA 1501 Lee Hwy, Ste 140 Arlington, VA 22209 703-525-3890 www.RRCA.org
WE RUN THE NATION!
BECAUSE MANNERS MATTER Get copies of the popular RRCA: Runners Etiquette brochure for your organization. The brochure is great for beginning running programs, marathon training programs, race bag stuffers, and more. You can purchase the brochure in lots of 100 or more, and the RRCA will gladly co-brand the brochure for the cost of printing and shipping if your club, event, or store orders 1000 copies or more. Contact programs@rrca.org about co-branded orders. The brochure outlines general running etiquette for road and trail running, the race start and on-course etiquette, aid station etiquette, and awards ceremony etiquette.
Order RRCA: Runners Etiquette brochures online at: www.RRCA.org/publications/
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