When retailers, races, and run clubs invest in each other, the opportunity multiplies for everyone involved. In Washington, DC, Pacers Running and District Running Collective have built exactly that – a working partnership across their channels that’s driving real loyalty and long-term participation. Moderated by Michael Clemons, Director of Operations at Running USA, this webinar breaks down how that collaboration actually works and what you can do to start taking action in your own community.
Attendees will leave with best practices for building similar partnerships, including how to create trust, keep communication honest and consistent along the way, and turn grassroots marketing campaigns into measurable growth.
Kathy Dalby
CEO, Pacers Running
Kathy Dalby is the CEO of Pacers Running, an award-winning running specialty retailer and events production company in the greater Washington, DC region. She serves on the board of the Running Industry Diversity Coalition, is a past president of the Running Industry Association, and is a co-founder of empowerun, a women’s industry networking and leadership event. Kathy is a recipient of SGB (Sporting Goods Business) 40 Under 40 honors, was named 2019 Best Straight Ally by the Washington Blade, a national LGBTQ+ news organization, and was selected as a 2026 Marine Corps Marathon Ambassador.
Matthew Green
Co-Founder / Lead Captain, District Running Collective
Matthew Green is the co-founder and lead captain of District Running Collective, a Washington, DC–based organization that merges community, wellness, and culture through running. With over a decade of experience leading teams and initiatives, he has guided DRC’s growth into one of the nation’s most influential running communities. Matthew is recognized for his ability to build inclusive spaces, develop emerging leaders, and drive partnerships that expand access to movement and connection across diverse audiences.
Michael Clemons
Director of Operations, Running USA
Michael Clemons (he/him) has worked in the running industry since 2012, managing and operating races nationwide. He currently serves as Director of Operations for Running USA, where he oversees the annual Running USA Industry Conference and leads the organization’s research and education initiatives. Michael has contributed to the operations of many major U.S. road races, including the World Athletics Championships Oregon22, New York City Marathon, Boston Marathon, Houston Marathon, Los Angeles Marathon, and the U.S. Olympic Marathon Team Trials. He also serves as the Finish Line Manager for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle.
Michael holds a PhD in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development with a concentration in Sport Administration from the University of Louisville. His research focuses on the running industry, including why people run, how race organizations make decisions, and how the sport can continue evolving to become more inclusive and accessible.
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