About the USA Distance Project

USA Track & Field is committed to continue building upon the recent success of U.S. marathoners and distance runners.

In 2009, seven training centers were supported by over $262,000 in grants, with signicant grants again, scheduled to be given in 2010.

USA Distance Center programs such as Bay Area Track Club, Mammoth Track Club, Team USA Minnesota, ZAP Fitness, McMillan Elite and Team Indiana Elite have made significant progress, and have indeed, returned U.S. long distance runners to being competitive internationally.

A partnership between major U.S. distance running events, major corporations and USATF that would further supplement and support these USA Distance Centers, has been established in order to supplement these programs with new projects and activities.

Read Distance Project recipient testimonials HERE.

Making a Difference

The USA Distance Project is a financial, marketing and promotional partnership for the long-term development of elite USA distance athletes, so that they can compete successfully in both domestic and international competitions, including major championship events. This partnership will build upon the recent successes of U.S. distance running, while maintaining a collective commitment towards developing athletes through the next Olympiad and beyond.

The USA Distance Project Purpose

The USA Distance Project is dedicated to increasing the opportunities for, and the number of, U.S. long distance running athletes, by creating a network of training environments and activities that will produce more world-class American marathoners and distance stars. Existing and emerging training centers will become part of the USA Distance Project, and will get support from USATF in the form of grants which will supplement funding for general operations, as well as grants for coaching assistance, identification and support of additional athletes, promotion of athletes, training summits, high-altitude training camps and/or sponsor recruitment assistance.

The recent successes of U.S. long distance athletes has shown that the USA Distance Center model is a viable system from which internationally competitive athletes can emerge. While the window of opportunity to further develop U.S. long distance running athletes exists, we must take steps to drive more developing athletes into the programs that have shown the most potential for developing distance stars. Get Involved!

There are seven levels of Giving Opportunities, ranging from the Bronze Donor level of $50 to the Life Benefactor level at $100,000. Other levels include Silver ($100), Gold ($500), President's Club ($1,000) and Benefactor ($10,000). Benefits are awarded depending upon the amount of the donation, and range from window stickers to assistance with ticket purchase for the 2008 summer Olympic Games.

For donations at the $10,000 level and above, please contact Tom Jackovic, Executive Director, USA Track & Field Foundation at tom.jackovic@usarf.org.

Donations may be directed toward a specific program. *** DONATE NOW! ***

Contributions to the USA Distance Project are tax deductible. Please consult your tax advisor.

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