Running USA has announced the first round of breakout sessions for the 2026 Running USA Industry Conference presented by haku, taking place February 1–3 at the historic Union Station Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri. These sessions will provide actionable insights and innovative strategies for attendees, including event producers and staff, vendors, timers, non-profits, marketers, run clubs, technology providers and more.
“Running USA is committed to bringing exciting and relevant discussions to the 2026 Running Industry Conference presented by haku,” said Jay Holder, Running USA’s Executive Director. “We are constantly talking to our members to understand what their priorities are and how to make sure this conference addresses the needs of event organizers and businesses in the running event industry.”
The newly confirmed breakout sessions are:
Running Together: Navigating Board and Staff Roles in Nonprofit Race Management
Jennifer Edwards, Executive Director, Big Sur Marathon Foundation
Working with a board of directors should be a challenging opportunity. Explore the critical relationships between nonprofit boards and race staff, and learn how to communicate effectively with your organization’s governing body and utilize board members’ talents and time.
No BS Marketing: How We Sold Out Nine Events in One Year
James Bryan, Director of Marketing and Communications, J&A Racing
Nothing makes people want to run your race more than telling them it’s “sold out!” Join J&A Racing for a refreshingly upfront dive into the diverse marketing strategies and communication tactics that led to a year of sellouts in races that range in size, demographics and distance.
Building Community with Culture & Movement
Tes Sobomehin Marshall, Founder and Race Director, runningnerds
Atlanta’s The Race 13.1 is more than just a run. Discover how events can be a powerful vehicle for culture, inclusivity and movement-building far beyond race day.
Keep Your Race Out of the Headlines: Course Accuracy and Operations Tips
Doug Thurston, Event Consultant
It can happen to the best of us. A mismeasured course or one misplaced cone. The results can be disastrous. Learn from decades of operational expertise to ensure your event is accurate, efficient and headline-free—for all the right reasons.
Beyond the Finish Line: Pig Works’ Blueprint for Engaging Gen Z
Doug Olberding, Executive Director, Pig Works
It’s not too late to start investing in your future runners. Get an inside look at how one organization is successfully engaging the next generation of participants with innovative programming and community-first thinking.
These early sessions are just part of an expansive schedule designed to inspire, educate, and connect running industry professionals.
Conference registration is open. Secure your spot today at: https://register.hakuapp.com/?event=04958b1fee4e66e9ebcf
Speaker applications for the event are still being accepted, and if you have a timely and engaging topic to submit, please do so here.
There are no comments
Please login to post comments