United States
From WikiRun
| United States | |
 | |
| Olympic Group | US Olympic Committee |
|---|---|
| NOC Website | www.usoc.org |
| Governing Body | USATF |
| Website | www.usatf.org |
| Olympic Medal Count | Gold: 1008 Silver: 810 Bronze: 696[1] |
The United States of America has a vibrant running community.
The United States Olympic Committee is responsible for all international competitions where the nation is represented, and has designated USATF as the national governing body for track & field and road racing. Over 800 running clubs and events are represented by the Road Runners Club of America.
Young runners join the sport through the Junior Olympics programs conducted by the AAU and/or the USATF in most areas. Most Middle Schools and High Schools have track and cross country programs. The NCAA governs intercollegiate athletics, including cross country and track at the college level.
Beyond college, there are very limited opportunities to compete professionally in running. However, there are extensive racing opportunities, many of which include some prize money. In response to the number of foreign athletes who come to the United States to compete in races on visitor visas, some races have established prize money structures limited to United States citizens. With very few exceptions, most runners have an additional occupation besides running to secure their income.
See also
- List of United States runners
- List of United States triathletes
- United States at the 2008 Summer Olympics
- United States at the 2004 Summer Olympics
External links
References
- ↑ As of 2008-08-29. Does not include medals won as part of mixed teams with athletes from other nations (1896–1904). http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All-time_Olympic_Games_medal_count