RIDC’s Powerful Impact at The Running Event (TRE) 2024
"RIDC is making an outsized impact on the running industry and has brought the community together like no other organization in this space."–TRE attendee
Progress isn’t just measured in numbers or reports—though we provide those too—it’s also measured by what you can see, feel, and experience.
This year at TRE, the RIDC made a powerful impact, leaving a lasting impression on the communities we serve and represent. We brought 24 BIPOC retail employees and owners on scholarships, encouraged companies to bring BIPOC team members and partners, delivered impactful educational sessions, and hosted what many have called "the running industry’s party of the year" (your words, not ours). These highlights are a testament to the collective hard work and progress we've achieved together over the past four years. Keep reading below for the full recap + photos from our efforts during TRE.
Big milestone! 🥳 The RIDC is turning five next year, and we invite you to join us in reflecting and celebrating.
The work we take on is challenging, and while setbacks are part of the journey, we remain committed to moving forward together. Thank YOU for believing in the RIDC mission and standing with us to create spaces in the running and outdoor industries where progress isn’t just a future goal—it’s here, it’s happening, and it’s growing stronger with every act of support.
We kicked off our week at TRE with our deep dive session, supported by ASICS. The Future of Run Specialty from the RIDC Lens: Relevance and Consumer Loyalty brought together an incredible lineup of runners, employees, owners, and global leaders—including individuals who have gone from not even knowing about this industry to now actively shaping its future. Their stories and insights reflected the transformative work happening in real-time across the country.
The RIDC holds a unique position in the running industry—right at the center. This vantage point provides us with a clear lens on what’s happening (or not happening) and how progress is being made across the industry.
Thank you to our presenters for advancing the RIDC mission: ASICS, We Run 313, Charm City Run, New Balance, Black Girls Run!, Brooks, Charlotte Running Company, Damon Brown, GU, Rising Hearts, HOKA, Especial, The Exchange Running Collective, On, and 6RUN5.
Yes, we bring competitors together to share the stage and highlight their work aligned with the RIDC mission. In racial justice, there’s no competition—collaboration and unity are essential!
RIDC’s 'Welcome to TRE Mixer' was an absolute blast! Huge thanks to RichesArt Gallery and Studio for hosting us, and to Shirley’s Trini Cuisine for the incredible Trinidadian and Tobagonian flavors that truly made the night special.
It was a joy bringing together RIDC board members, staff, and scholarship recipients to connect, network, and gear up for an exciting week.
Shoutout to our sponsors, TRE and On, for helping make this program possible.
Photo Credit: Henry Selis
Our 4th Annual CommUnity Run/Walk, powered by Saucony, was one for the books! Austin's running crews showed up big, and TRE brought the energy for another incredible run/walk that united us all.
250 friends, partners, and supporters joined us for the 2.5-mile course, creating an undeniable sense of community.
We ended the event with light bites and amazing vibes. A big thank you to everyone who joined us to make this year’s run/walk special!
Photo Credit: Henry Selis
Our guests came to party with the RIDC during TRE to celebrate the culture, dance, eat, and enjoy time with one another. We had 700+ RSVPs! During the event, we also had the opportunity to present our RUN THE BLOCK recipients, Carol and Jesse Holland, with their grand prize and introduce them to the running industry.
Thank you to our event sponsors for their generous support: Saucony, ASICS, Altra, Feetures, HOKA, New Balance, On, Brooks, Strava, Big Peach Running Co., PUMA, Footlocker, Athletic Brewing Co., FitVine, and Active Brands Consulting.
Next year, we’re excited to elevate the experience when TRE moves to San Antonio as we celebrate five amazing years of the RIDC!
Photo Credit: Henry Selis