Pirrello’s Leadership to Accelerate Global Adoption of Inclusive Race Starts
(Los Angeles, CA – May 4, 2026) Start Without a Shot (SWaS), the global initiative working to replace traditional starter sounds (e.g., gunshots, airhorns, canons) with inclusive, non-triggering alternatives, today announced the appointment of Emily Smith Pirrello as its Executive Director. A seasoned strategist, nonprofit leader, and management consultant, Pirrello will lead the organization’s next phase of growth as it scales adoption across races, institutions, and governing bodies worldwide.
Pirrello brings a distinguished track record at the intersection of global impact, culture, and organizational leadership. She previously served as the first Chief of Staff of FP2020 at the United Nations Foundation, a landmark global health partnership, and was a member of the executive leadership team at the Sundance Institute, host of the renowned Sundance Film Festival, where she led the search for the festival’s future location.
“Emily is a transformational leader with a rare combination of operational rigor, strategic clarity, and mission-driven passion,” said Kirkland Alexander Lynch, Global Chairman of Start Without a Shot. “As we move from breakthrough idea to global standard, her leadership will be instrumental in building the partnerships, infrastructure, and momentum needed to reach athletes and communities around the world.”
Start Without a Shot was born out of a simple but powerful insight: the traditional starting gun used in races can be triggering for many participants, including veterans, survivors of trauma, and individuals with sensory sensitivities. The initiative provides a research-backed alternative start sound that preserves the excitement of competition while creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all.
Since its debut at the Kyiv City Marathon in 2024, the SWaS sound has been adopted by hundreds of races globally, with growing support from athletic organizations, race directors, and advocacy groups. The initiative aims to achieve widespread adoption ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
“As a lifelong athlete and the proud spouse of a disabled veteran, this mission is deeply personal to me,” said Pirrello. “Sport has the power to heal, unite, and inspire—but only when everyone feels safe at the starting line. I’m honored to help lead this global movement to set a new standard where every athlete feels seen, supported, and celebrated.”
In her role as Executive Director, Pirrello will focus on expanding institutional partnerships, driving policy change, and building the organizational foundation needed to support rapid global scale. Her appointment marks a significant milestone as Start Without a Shot continues to evolve from a grassroots innovation into a global standard for race starts.
ABOUT START WITHOUT A SHOT:
Start Without a Shot is a global initiative dedicated to replacing traditional starter sounds (e.g, gunshots, airhorns, and canons) in races with inclusive, non-triggering alternatives. Backed by research and developed in collaboration with sound designers, medical professionals, and race organizers, the initiative aims to make sporting events more accessible while preserving the integrity and excitement of competition. Learn more at www.startwithoutashot.org.