Road Runners Club of America

The Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) is the oldest and largest national association of running organizations in the United States. Founded on February 22, 1958, the RRCA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization dedicated to promoting and growing the sport of running.

Mission and Vision

The RRCA's mission is to champion the development of community-based running clubs and events that serve runners of all ages and abilities in the pursuit of health and competition. The organization envisions a future where everyone is empowered to run, with active and organized running clubs present in every community. The RRCA values integrity, excellence, diversity, equity, inclusion, and collaboration, aiming to provide equal opportunities for participation and contribution to the sport of running.

Structure and Programs

The RRCA consists of over 2,700 running club and event members, representing more than 250,000 individual runners. It supports a network of 7,000 RRCA Certified Distance Running Coaches and numerous RRCA Certified Race Directors. Key programs include:

• Liability Insurance: The RRCA provides liability insurance for running clubs and events, covering over 10,000 events annually.
• Coaching Certification: Offers certification programs for coaches specializing in training long-distance runners.
• Runner Safety and Education: Promotes runner safety, education, and advocacy.
• National Events: Organizes national, regional, and state championship event series.
• Road Scholars Program: Provides grants for promising post-collegiate athletes.
• Kids Run the Nation Program: A 10-week youth running program curriculum with small grant funding for youth programs.
• Runner Friendly Community Program: Recognizes communities that provide safe and supportive environments for runners.
• National Running Awards Program: Honors outstanding volunteers and contributors to the running community.

History

Established as an alternative to the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) in 1958, the RRCA aimed to provide a more open and organized running experience. Key milestones include:

• 1958: Founded with initial championship events.
• 1963: Ignored AAU age and medical requirements to promote inclusive racing.
• 1964: Began certifying accurately measured courses.
• 1965: Held the first National Women's Cross Country Championship.
• 1970: Hosted the first women's marathon championship event.
• 1978: Contributed to the passage of the Amateur Sports Act, which restructured sports governance in the U.S.

Achievements and Awards

The RRCA has made significant contributions to the sport of running, notably through its advocacy for women's running, including lobbying for a women's Olympic marathon and promoting equal prize structures for men and women. The organization operates a Hall of Fame established in 1971 to recognize individuals who have contributed significantly to long-distance running. The RRCA also presents various awards recognizing outstanding volunteers, clubs, and events within the running community.