The IAU Development Committee made up predominantly of newer member federations, with the exception of Mexico and Ukraine, met recently to review several key areas important to the global growth of ultrarunning. Much of the discussion focused on how the IAU can better support newer member federations, many of which are joining from regions where ultrarunning is only beginning to gain traction. Helping these federations build a solid foundation is central to the Committee’s development goals.
Members also highlighted the need for clear rules and regulations so that ultrarunning can be properly integrated into national federation guidelines. This is especially important in places where the sport of ultrarunning is still emerging and not yet part of the official athletics calendar, which can make development more challenging. Ukraine is a great example where the Ukrainian Athletic Federation is taking active steps to include the sport in their program. Their insight in this process will be invaluable.
The Committee reviewed the current pace of growth across different regions, noting both positive momentum and ongoing obstacles. Supporting federations that face these barriers remains a priority, and the group discussed ways to create more opportunities for the sport to expand.
As part of this work, the Committee agreed to begin drafting a white paper advocating for the growth of ultrarunning, with particular emphasis on guiding newer federations as they establish the discipline within their national structures.
The meeting reflected a shared commitment to strengthening ultrarunning globally and ensuring that all federations especially those in developing regions have the tools and support they need to move the sport forward.
Nadeem Khan,
IAU President,
Chair of IAU Development Committee
Missing from photo: Raul Castañon (MEX).
