Welcome to 2026, a note of commitment from RIA CEO
✨ Welcome to 2026 ✨
As we step into a new year, we’re taking a moment to reflect on what has been an incredible year for Running and Triathlon industries with Running Industry Alliance (RIA) & The Running Conference (TRC) and Triathlon Industry Alliance (TIA) & Triathlon Industry Conference (TIC25).
From growing an incredible 450+ diverse Membership across ten industry defined channels, to expanding our collective work across Membership, Events, Awards, Data and Industry connection - none of this would be possible without the continued support of our Members, Alliances, Team, Board, Partners, and Supporters. Thank you for being part of the journey - together.
Looking ahead to 2026, our focus is clear: Galvanise, Elevate, and Advance the Running and Triathlon Industries - Together. This will be a continued year of action with the introduction of our new working group format, alongside further initiatives announced at hashtag#TRC25. These are designed to bring Members together around key challenges and opportunities - and to turn conversation into meaningful, collective progress.
As we (RIA) enter our fourth year and look ahead to the fifth The Running Conference presented by haku 6th - 8th December 2026, we will continue to build on the foundations / key focus areas:
> Strengthen support and collaboration across all sectors of the running and multi-sport industries, building on the connections and initiatives we’ve developed over the past four years
> Deliver deeper, future-facing industry insight through collaborative research, data, and reporting, helping members stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape
> Continue practical, outcome-driven working groups that translate shared expertise into real, measurable change across the industry
> Growing stronger together - a connected Alliance showcasing the strong Member collaboration, amplifying shared knowledge and providing resources that drive sustainable industry growth - intergenerational
> Harness digital tools and innovation to enhance engagement, learning and industry impact, building on the successes of our existing platforms and programs
> Champion inclusive, diverse, and responsible practices across the sector, ensuring the Alliance reflects and supports all members of the industry
> Nurture and expand the in-person momentum generated at TRC25 and TIC25, continue making our conferences, events, socials and gatherings engaging, meaningful and impactful
💡 RIA and TIA Membership both re-open from 15th Jan 2026. More info can be found across our family of websites:
www.runningindustryalliance.com
www.therunningconference.com
www.runningindustryawards.com
www.triathlonindustryalliance.com
We’re excited about what’s ahead, looking forward to working alongside our Members / Alliances to make '26 a year of continued progress, impact and collective action.
Thank you.
Rebecca (Becs) Richardson
CEO of Running Industry Alliance (RIA) - follow us on LinkedIn
