RIDC Media & Round Up April 2026
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A statue honoring Bobbi Gibb, the first woman to run the Boston Marathon, was unveiled near Hopkinton's Main Street and Hayden Rowe Street on Friday, March 27. The statue commemorates her 1966 participation and role in opening the race to women.
Millions are joining run clubs and signing up for marathons each year, and those events are having a big impact on local economies. The surge in running that began during the COVID-19 pandemic continues to influence the sport today, bringing in new, more diverse participants and shifting how races, brands, and communities show up. From increased demand for inclusive events to evolving runner motivations, the sport is adapting to a new generation of runners.
Registration is now officially open for the 2027 Running USA Industry Conference, presented by Haku. The annual event will bring together leaders across the running industry for networking, education, and collaboration, continuing its role as a key gathering for professionals shaping the future of the sport. Learn more and register here.
Cynthia Erivo is chasing a 3:15 marathon. Women's Health takes a look at her marathon training routine, highlighting her disciplined approach to strength, endurance, and recovery. The piece offers insight into how she balances performance and wellness while preparing for long-distance races.
In Nashville, Black wellness leaders are using run clubs as a way to promote health, connection, and cultural pride. By creating intentional spaces rooted in community and care, they’re redefining what wellness looks like and making running more accessible and welcoming for everyone.
Ready to return to running postpartum? Runner's World shares a helpful guide for new moms easing back into running after childbirth. The article encourages a gradual approach—focusing on recovery, rebuilding strength, and tuning into your body while offering expert tips to support a safe and confident return to movement.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Running Shoes? This guide from The New York Times breaks down how often runners should replace their shoes, highlighting key signs like worn tread, discomfort, and reduced support. It also explains how mileage, running style, and terrain all play a role in determining when it’s time for a new pair.
For the first time in history, all women physicians are leading a sports clinic designed for female athletes. The women-led practice at the University of Cincinnati's Orthopaedics and Sports Clinic is helping close long-standing gaps in research and treatment, offering more personalized support and redefining what inclusive care looks like in sports medicine.