Getting Your Name Out There

Victor Sailer, Photo Run

You are a competitive athlete. You have been racing for awhile, had a few good results. You are aware that there are incentives for runners like you; you just don’t know how to get in on them. Well, this is the place. Periodically, we will focus on the things you can be doing to get yourself known in the running community. Some of these are common sense while others may surprise you. If any of you out there have any input or ideas, please send them on to me.

Your first step is to race successfully. Now this can be accomplished in a number of ways. Winning is always nice. It does not have to be the Olympic Final or anything. If you win a local race, there is bound to be some sort of coverage. Save this for future reference. Race some large high profile races as well. You may not finish in the top three, but it will look good in the future. Keep track of all times and places.

Next, compile your running resume. Use your imagination to make it interesting and informative. If you have any interesting running related trivia, use it on the resume. If you can use a running picture, I think that is nice. Although you may not have a lot of races or wins on your resume, you may have something that sets you apart from the rest. Make sure to keep this resume current.

You also want to build up your reputation as a runner outside the races. Volunteer to help put on a race. Write a guest column for your local newspaper. Offer to help train kids for an upcoming race. Join the local running organization.

As your credentials improve, you may find yourself in the position to race as an elite runner. You would contact the race director, send your resume and a letter, and ask if they would like to help you. Depending on your credentials, you may be offered a free entry, lodging, travel and even appearance money. An indispensable guide to use is Road Race Management. This lists all prize money races, as well as profiles of top athletes, agent information, and sponsor contacts. If your times are quick enough, you would want to submit your own information to this valuable guide for the next year.

You may also qualify for sponsorship from a company or organization. Contact a shoe company or apparel company and ask them if they are interested in sponsoring you. Make sure to send them any publicity you have acquired as well as your resume. With these sponsors, sometimes you don’t have to be the fastest to be considered. Look for the interesting angle in approaching them. Use your imagination for sponsors also. You may want to approach a local grocery store, your place of employment or a car dealership. Publicity is good for any business, and if you can offer this to them, it may be worth their time and money to sponsor you.

At some point, you may want to consider an agent. They can be most helpful to the frequent, successful racer, who does not have a lot of time to devote to promoting themselves. Frequently, an agent can get a number of their athletes into a particular race, arranging transportation and lodging. Keep in mind, however, that you must pay an agent a percentage of your winnings.

Don’t give up on your efforts. You may lose some, but you will win some also. Keep trying, and keep training, and hopefully you will succeed. If you have any ideas or comments, please e mail them or use the forum to comment. Good luck.