Celebrating Community Builders: RIDC’s First-Ever Community Collaboration Award
One of our most meaningful moments came during TRE’s Industry Awards, when the Running Industry Diversity Coalition (RIDC) took the stage to give our first-ever RIDC Community Collaboration Award!
The RIDC Community Collaboration Award was created to spotlight retail employees in the running industry who are helping to make running relevant to more people. The people who go beyond business as usual and create intentional partnerships to expand the reach and relevance of running, and encourage others to join the sport, no matter where they are in their running journey. These honorees are leaders who show up for their communities, create access, and make running feel welcoming to everyone.
This year, RIDC was proud to recognize two Operating Partners from Fleet Feet whose work exemplifies collaboration, creativity, and care.
Meet The Recipients!
Ari Perez — Fleet Feet Austin, TX
The RIDC team nominated Ari Perez, Operating Partner at Fleet Feet in Austin, TX, for this award. Ari has always been one to help us when needed, especially with our CommUnity Runs in TX. Known for his big energy, bold creativity, and an unmistakable commitment to community, Ari has a gift for turning running into an experience that feels joyful, accessible, and fun for everyone.
Whether he’s showing up to events in costume just to spark a smile or hosting pop-up runs and summer series that draw huge crowds, Ari’s approach makes one thing clear: you don’t need to look a certain way or run at a certain pace to belong. His work helps more people confidently see themselves as runners.
Neli Manova — Fleet Feet Fayetteville, NC
Johnny Wilson sent us a heartfelt nomination for Neli Manova, Operating Partner at Fleet Feet, Fayetteville, NC. Neli brings her impact through consistency, intention, and everyday action. She is deeply committed to creating access and building partnerships that uplift and strengthen her local running community.
Neli’s store partnership with Stand Up Maud 2.23 helped double the number of program runners in the Fayetteville region. Customers say that visiting the Feet Fleet store under Neli’s leadership is a next-level customer service experience. The team is welcoming, ensures customers are properly fitted, educates customers on the best running products, and goes above and beyond for each person who walks through the door.
From building meaningful relationships to opening doors for collaboration, Neli’s behind-the-scenes hustle is exactly the kind of leadership that fuels long-term change for our sport. Her work reminds us that community impact isn’t always loud, but it’s always powerful.
Check out what Neli had to say about receiving the RIDC Community Collaboration Award on LinkedIn!
Why This Award Matters
At its core, the RIDC Community Collaboration Award is about recognizing leaders who move the industry forward by centering people, connection, and inclusion. Ari and Neli represent what’s possible when collaboration is treated not as a buzzword, but as a responsibility.
Their work reflects RIDC’s ongoing commitment to a running industry where everyone feels seen, supported, and invited to participate—and we’re proud to celebrate them both.
Here’s to the leaders building bridges, expanding access, and reminding us that running is better when we move forward together!