Running USA along with Spartan Race, Ironman, Tough Mudder, Rock & Roll Marathon Series, USA Triathlon, USA Cycling, and imATHLETE / EnMotive has joined together to ask Congress for relief from canceled and postponement of events due to the coronavirus.
“As we’re all proud to do our part to help flatten the curve, the economic realities of low to no registration revenue, sponsorship contraction, and no predictability as to when we’ll be able to resume threatens to put our entire industry at risk,” Running USA said in a statement.
“As bans on mass gatherings may continue for months and consumer comfort in big outdoor events may be slow to rebound, many of us will need additional support to ensure that we can continue to provide the public health benefit, deliver economic and charity impact, sustain jobs and support our athlete communities.”
The organizations formed the Endurance Sports Coalition and is urging other related organizations to join the coalition at join.endurancesportscoalition.org.
Running USA said that over the coming days, the Endurance Sports Coalition will be launching a public call to action, asking partners to mobilize their athletes to sign petitions and reach out to elected officials on the importance of our industry. This will be coupled with a broad media strategy and on the ground efforts on Capitol Hill.
Running USA concluded, “Perseverance, determination and grit have long been the traits our athletes have brought to our events. With that same spirit and the support of our broader community– we can ensure that our events will be here when our athletes can safely toe the start line again.”
Photo courtesy Boulder Boulder
