RRCA Launches New Education Resource, RunLead Badge

December 15, 2023

Arlington, VA /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – The Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) celebrates the growing popularity of people starting and joining run clubs and crews. Participation in weekly group training and social runs is at an all-time high as people embrace running for fitness, health, mental well-being, and a positive social network. To expand on our Safe Group Run Guidelines, the RRCA is pleased to announce the launch of our newest education resource, RunLead Badge.

RunLead Badge serves as an introduction to running leadership and mentorship and complements the Coaching Certification program. The goals of the RunLead Badge program are to:

1. Provide knowledge to people interested in being a community-based RunLead, run mentor, or pace group leader.
2. Provide education for organized groups in need of trained RunLeads, mentors, and pace group leaders.
3. Provide an overview of safety concepts for managing run groups, including managing group dynamics, behaviors, inclusivity, and more.
4. Provide background knowledge to inspire RunLead Badge holders to take the next step and become an RRCA Certified Run Coach.

“The RRCA has a long history of providing education opportunities that serve the nationwide running community of race directors, coaches, club leaders, volunteers, and runners,” explained Jean Knaack, RRCA CEO. “The RunLead Badge program provides valuable information that will benefit both new and experienced run leaders, mentors, and coaches as they help RRCA pursue our vision of Empowering Everyone to Run.”

The RunLead Badge program cost is $25 and is presented in the recently launched RRCA Education Hub hosted by LearnWorlds. It consists of a 1+ hour online module followed by a 20-question quiz. Participants must score 80% or higher to pass. LearnWorlds will automatically confirm completion of the program after viewing the module and passing the quiz. Successful participants will receive a confirmation email containing the RunLead Badge image they may post to social media, add to email signatures, etc.

The development of the RunLead Badge by RRCA has been a creative collaboration between Bee Butler – RRCA Coaching Certification Instructor, Randy Accetta PhD – RRCA Director of Coaching Education, Erica Gminski – RRCA Youth & Coaching Program Manager, and Jean Knaack – RRCA CEO.

About RRCA: The Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) is the oldest and largest national association of running organizations and runners dedicated to growing the sport since 1958. The RRCA champions the development of community-based running clubs and events that serve runners of all ages and abilities in pursuit of health and competition. The RRCA’s vision is Empowering Everyone to Run. To learn more, visit: www.RRCA.org