Member Feature 

Meet Aaron Velthoven, the passionate Race Director behind the Detroit Free Press Marathon. In this video, we take you behind the scenes to learn how Aaron helps bring one of Detroit’s most iconic events to life—uniting runners from around the world with a unique international course, rich local tradition, and unforgettable race-day energy.

​Trisha Drobeck serves as the Executive Director of Run Wild Missoula and the Race Director for the Missoula Marathon, bringing a wealth of experience and passion to the organization. Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, she moved to Missoula to attend the University of Montana, where she majored in journalism. After graduation, she embarked on a career in sales, where she worked for 15 years  before transitioning to nonprofit leadership in 2021.​ Drobeck's journey into running began post-college when a friend encouraged her to train for a marathon. Her dedication led her to break the three-hour marathon mark in 2011, qualify for the 2016 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, and win the Missoula Marathon four times. Notably, she set the women's course record in 2015 with a time of 2:46:54 . As Executive Director, she focuses on fostering an inclusive and welcoming running community in Missoula, reflecting her deep commitment to the sport and the local community.

Running USA looks forward to bringing the 2026 Industry Conference presented by haku to St. Louis, Missouri, from Feb. 1-3, 2026. To learn more about the city, its running scene and the Greater St. Louis Marathon, which will run its 25th edition in two weeks, we caught up with Mona Vespa, Executive Director of GO! St. Louis, who has dedicated her career to the organization. Watch the video to get to know Mona and learn more about what St. Louis has in store for us next year!

Olympic medalist, Global medalist and seven-time USA Track and Field National Champion, Alysia Montaño has used her platform to initiate a movement that has changed the dialogue around the capabilities and experience of professional athletes when they become mothers. As an athlete, author, analyst, and entrepreneur, Alysia has experience in building a brand while building partnerships and community. She continues to channel these gifts as well as her ability to inspire others to demand and make change. She talked to Running USA's Leah Etling about her non-profit, For All Mothers+, and it's efforts to lead the way for mothers in sport and everywhere.