The Rambling Runner Podcast

In this episode, I dive into the latest insights from RunSignup’s midyear report on the endurance race industry and how demographic shifts along with marketing strategies are shaping running events today. Bob Bickel shares comprehensive data on race registration patterns, growth sectors, and innovative marketing approaches, offering valuable lessons for race directors, marketers, and enthusiasts alike. Main Topics: Demographic shifts in race participation, especially younger runners and under-18 registration The influence of race size, timing, and marketing strategies on registration patterns How travel, community engagement, and youth programs are driving growth Effective marketing tactics: team building, referral programs, and community connections Gender and age participation trends, highlighting increased female participation and younger demographics Race categorization and the importance of timely registration data for planning RunSignup’s Knowledge Base and Industry Reports - https://runsignup.com/knowledge-base Read the 2026 Midyear Race Trends Report - https://info.runsignup.com/2026/06/22/2026-midyear-race-trends-update/ Sponsors Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.mounttocoast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use code RAMBLING to save 10% on your order. Tailwind Nutrition - Tailwind set the standard for running nutrition and hydration. Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tailwindnutrition.com/RAMBLING ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠or use code RAMBLING20 to save 20% on your first order. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices