RRCA Accepting Nominations For The National Running Awards

January 14, 2026

Recognizing outstanding leaders, volunteers, programs, and athletes who advance the running community

Falls Church, VA (January 14, 2026) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – The Road Runners Club of America (RRCA), the oldest and largest running organization in the United States dedicated to empowering everyone to run, is now accepting nominations for its annual RRCA National Running Awards. These prestigious honors shine a spotlight on the exceptional contributions of individuals, clubs, programs, and events that strengthen and elevate the running community nationwide.

The honorees will be recognized at a special awards luncheon during the 2026 RRCA National Convention on Saturday, April 11, 2026, in Arlington, VA where we bring together running community leaders, volunteers, and runners who celebrate the running community.

Award Categories Open for Nomination
Awards recognizing excellence across the sport include (but are not limited to):

• Browning Ross Spirit of the RRCA Award – Honoring extraordinary lifetime volunteer service and dedication to the sport.
• Outstanding Club President – Recognizing exemplary leadership, club growth, and community engagement.
• Road Runners of the Year – Celebrating top competitive performances in open, masters, and adaptive divisions.
• Outstanding Volunteer – Highlighting the selfless contributions of volunteers beyond board leadership.
• Excellence in Running Journalism – Awarding outstanding storytelling that inspires runners.
• Communications Excellence – Recognizing excellence in digital, print, or social media outreach.
• Outstanding Youth Running Program – Celebrating impactful youth engagement and development.
• Outstanding Beginning Running Program – Acknowledging programs that successfully introduce new runners to the sport.
• Road Race of the Year – Recognizing exceptional race events that deliver outstanding participant experience.
• Outstanding RRCA State Representative – Honoring state-level advocates who support local clubs and runners.

How to Submit a Nomination
Anyone may submit a nomination — clubs, coaches, athletes, volunteers, friends, or community members — by visiting the RRCA National Running Awards page at https://www.rrca.org/programs/awards/. There you can review award criteria and complete a nomination form for each award category you support. Deadline to Nominate:
All nominations must be submitted by 5:00 PM EST on January 31, 2026. Winners receive a travel stipend and complimentary ticket to attend the awards ceremony (convention registration not included).

About the RRCA:
Founded in 1958, the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) is the oldest and largest national association dedicated to growing the sport of running. The RRCA champions the development and success of community-based running organizations that empower all people to participate in the sport of running in pursuit of enjoyment, health, well-being and competition. For more information, visit www.RRCA.org.