2025 Industry Awards

2025 Industry Awards: Celebrating Run Specialty Leaders

The 2025 Industry Awards will be given at the Industry Awards Dinner on Thursday, December 4, at The Running Event in San Antonio, TX. These special awards will be presented by Altra, Balega, Brooks, New Balance, On, Saucony, and the Running Industry Diversity Coalition (RIDC).

In addition, the Jogology Future Leader of the Year Award will be presented in the #TRE25 exhibit hall during a dedicated meetup. Nominations close Friday, October 10.

For any questions, please email [email protected].

Stay Out There Award, Presented by Altra

Altra is recognizing individuals who ‘Stay Out There’ in their effort to change the shape of running. This award celebrates those who seek to ensure under-represented communities feel seen, safe, welcome, and inspired to join the running community. These individuals demonstrate on-going courage and commitment to making change in their community.

Ubuntu Award, Presented by Balega

Since the inception of The Running Event, Balega has annually presented the Ubuntu Award to recognize a running specialty store for excelling in service and involvement in their local community.

The culture of Balega draws its inspiration from the humanistic philosophy of Ubuntu, which focuses on people’s allegiance and relationship to one another. It is the relationship to our communities that resonates with store owners every day in their hometowns—changing lives and helping to improve the lives of those living in our communities.

Trailblazer Award, Presented by Brooks

This award celebrates a bold thinker who pushes boundaries and sparks innovation. Their big ideas elevate the industry and redefine what’s possible, while their curiosity and leadership inspire others to think differently across the business. They are challenging the status quo and asking the question ‘How can we be better?’.

Fearlessly Independent Award, Presented by New Balance

The Fearlessly Independent stay true to who they are in the face of change, adversity, and success. The Fearlessly Independent lead rather than follow, explore rather than settle, and strive rather than hesitate. This award goes to a Fearlessly Independent retailer who embodies the energy and courage that it takes to stand out in the running industry in 2025.

Impact Award, Presented by On

Working to make a positive impact is not a one-and-done thing. It’s a journey. One that requires teamwork, commitment and accountability. It demands traveling unexplored paths and blazing new trails and thinking outside the box. And most importantly, it will require a brilliant spirit of collaboration.

The On Impact Award will be given to the retail partner making significant strides towards transforming run into a more sustainable, diverse, equitable and inclusive community.

Community Collaboration Award, Presented by the Running Industry Diversity Coalition (RIDC)

The Community Collaboration Award is a meaningful recognition that highlights a run specialty employee who is building intentional partnerships that help expand the reach and relevance of running in their local community.

This award is a testament to how one person’s intentions can help create greater access, representation, and opportunity in both the sport and business of running. It is not about one-time donations or surface-level support. The honoree, through their day-to-day commitments, demonstrates a dedication to listening, learning, and co-creating by working with all communities in ways that strengthen the industry as a whole.

At the RIDC, we believe the future of running is more diverse, inclusive, and community-driven. This award recognizes those turning that belief into action right now, helping shape a stronger and more connected running industry for all.

Run for Good Award, Presented by Saucony

This award recognizes a retailer who gives kids a running start towards a lifetime of good health through community-based youth running programs.

The Saucony Run for Good Foundation is committed to helping young people reach their full potential. We recognize the power of running and movement to strengthen bodies, minds, and communities. Saucony Run for Good supports organizations that create spaces where young individuals can connect, move, and thrive together—because when we run as one, good things happen. The winner will receive a donation to help introduce even more children to the power of running, creating a happier, healthier future for the local community.

Future Leader of the Year Award, Presented by Jogology & The Running Event

The Jogology Future Leader of the Year Award celebrates an individual who has been a driving force in the industry—championing innovation and leadership. This award recognizes someone who not only excels in their role but also inspires and mentor’s others, driving positive change and shaping the future of run specialty retail.

To support this initiative and the recipient’s ongoing growth, Jogology will present a $4,000 cash award to the honoree, which can be used for education, personal development, or community improvement, along with $1,000 in Jogology product for their store.

Register for #TRE25

Save with early bird rates, available through September 25.