Always Advancing News & Events

Lucky to Partner

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:57:06 GMT

Always Advancing’s Shamrock Shuffle Season

March is one of our favorite months of the year here at Always Advancing, and it's not just because of the longer days and warmer temperatures. March is Shamrock season!

Every year, we have the honor of producing awards, apparel, and accessories for dozens of St. Patrick's Day events across the country. From clovers to pots of gold and all the rainbows in between, it's such an exciting time of year in the endurance events industry! ��

One of our favorite annual events is the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon by J&A Racing. We have a longstanding partnership with J&A, which makes contributing to the event all the more meaningful to us. While the weekend itself includes expos, races, and post-race celebrations, the reach of the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon extends further - supporting initiatives like Starting Strides that make a lasting difference in local communities. Since 2012, J&A Racing Foundation has operated the Starting Strides program , which donates scholarships to schools with economically disadvantaged communities. Through these scholarships, the kids at these schools receive items that they may not be able to access otherwise:

Running shoes
Professional shoe fitting
Entry into the Yuengling Shamrock Final Mile (or Norfolk Harbor Kids Mile at J&A's Norfolk Harbor Half Marathon)!
A school race shirt to wear on race day
Transportation to and from the event

We were thrilled to once again be a partner of the Starting Strides program this year by donating to the scholarship for Holland Elementary School . Hanging out with the kids and handing out their new shoes and race shirts is always such a joy for our team!

Another one of our favorite annual Shamrock events is of course the Newtown Shamrock Shuffle , which takes place in our hometown of Newtown, PA, and brings together hundreds of runners for a community-centered day. Some other events we had the privilege of working with this year included The Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle , the San Jose Shamrock Run , Good Day for a Run's The Lucky Run , and another local favorite, Scoogie's Shake Your Shamrock! ��

As this year's Shamrock Shuffle season comes to an end, we're incredibly grateful to have once again played a part in so many unique events. If you’re planning an upcoming event and looking to elevate it with high-quality custom items, we’d love to partner with you!

Run Dollywood Race Weekend

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 15:00:22 GMT

We Earned Our Wings! ��

We are incredibly excited to be partnering with Dollywood for the inaugural Run Dollywood Race Weekend! There’s a distance for everyone at Dollywood: Saturday, April 25th features the kids’ run (ages 4–12), the 5K, and the 10K, followed by the headline half marathon on Sunday, April 26th.

Participants can also do the Butterfly Challenge and earn their wings by running the 5K, 10K, and half marathon. Butterfly Challenge finishers will receive their own custom finisher medal, which we had the honor of creating, along with the other finisher medals for each distance.

Each distance takes runners through the iconic Dollywood Theme Park, offering a one-of-a-kind way to experience the park. Runners will be surrounded by true Dolly energy - live music, enthusiastic volunteers, and an upbeat, positive atmosphere. The half marathon will also have pacers for different pace groups to help runners reach their goal time!

When registering, participants have the option to include 2-day park admission with their purchase, and can even stay in one of the two on-site hotels Dollywood has to offer, the HeartSong Lodge & Resort or Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa . Dollywood's Flower & Food Festival is also taking place the same weekend, so participants can truly receive the full Dollywood experience.

As the official medal partner for this event, our team at Always Advancing worked closely with Dollywood to create the custom finisher medals. Each detail was crafted with intention to capture the magic, color, and energy of the park. We truly had a blast making these keepsakes, and we're sure this inaugural event will become a beloved tradition for many for years to come.

Be sure to follow us - and Dollywood - on Instagram so you don't miss the reveal of the medals!

Running USA Industry Conference 2026

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 18:31:01 GMT

St. Louis, Missouri Empty heading

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Our team once again had a fantastic time at the Running USA Industry Conference . This year's conference was held at the beautiful Union Station Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri, and was presented by Haku .

We always love attending the RUSA conference as it is one of the rare opportunities when we get to meet face-to-face with other professionals in the industry, including many of our clients, partners, and peers from across the country. From insightful educational sessions and panel discussions to meaningful conversations in hallways and over meals, the conference left our team feeling inspired, motivated, and excited about what’s ahead. We returned home with fresh ideas, new connections, and actionable takeaways that will help us better support our race partners and continue to elevate the events and experiences we help create.

One of the highlights of this year's conference was attending the Puppy Happy Hour presented by TicketSocket . The Puppy Happy Hour allowed conference attendees a chance to relax and unwind while playing and cuddling with some of the adoptable dogs from the Center for Animal Rescue and Enrichment of St. Louis . We hope it made the dogs even half as happy as it made us!

Turkey Trot Side Dishes

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 15:12:41 GMT

Just like you need sides with your turkey, you need accessories with your medal!

Some people (us included) believe that the sides are just as important as the turkey on Thanksgiving (maybe even more so...��). That's why we love producing not only the medals for dozens of turkey trots across the nation, but also the accessories! From warm socks to festive headwear and everything in between, we’ve got everything runners need to trot comfortably - and in style.

Thanksgiving morning races have become a beloved tradition for runners, families, and communities all across the country. There’s something special about gathering at the start line before the holiday rush begins, bundled up and buzzing with energy. For many, a turkey trot isn’t just a race or a fun run; it’s the unofficial kickoff to the day’s celebrations!

But as anyone who has raced in late November knows, the weather can be… unpredictable. Some years deliver that perfect crisp, fall chill; others bring icy wind, freezing temps, or even a dusting of early-season snow. That’s why the right accessories make all the difference.

Accessories also help race organizers transform their event into something memorable. They’re often the first thing participants interact with — the warm gloves they pull on during packet pickup, the headwear they slip on as they wait for the race to start. These pieces become small keepsakes from a big experience, and knowing that our work helps shape those race-day memories is something we take pride in year after year.

At the end of the day, turkey trots are about more than running; they’re about community, tradition, and creating memories that stick with people long after the finish line. In the same way the sides complete a Thanksgiving feast, the accessories complete a turkey trot, making race morning a little warmer, a little brighter, and a whole lot more fun.

Wishing a happy and healthy Thanksgiving to all who celebrate!

P.S., comment below what your favorite Thanksgiving side dish is! No judgment here, even if you pick the cranberry sauce. ��

Newtown's Inaugural Turkey Trot

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 14:00:11 GMT

Join Us for the Inaugural Newtown Turkey Trot this Thanksgiving Morning!

In Honor of Officer Brian Gregg Empty headingEmpty heading

This Thanksgiving, lace up your running shoes for a meaningful cause at the Newtown Turkey Trot 5K, a new community tradition in the heart of Newtown Borough. The race, set for Thanksgiving morning (Thursday, November 27 at 9:00 AM), is more than just a fun run –it's an opportunity to come together in remembrance, gratitude, and support. And what better day to unite as a community and give thanks than Thanksgiving itself?

This event is being held in memory of Officer Brian Gregg, a dedicated member of the Newtown Borough Police Department who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on September 29, 2005. Officer Gregg had just begun serving full-time when he was fatally shot while on duty in the emergency department at St. Mary Medical Center.

Brian left behind his loving wife, Kella Ann Kneubuehl Gregg, and his son, Kyle Gregg. This year marks 20 years since his passing, a solemn milestone that reminds us not only of his sacrifice but of the enduring legacy he left behind.

Proceeds from the race will benefit the Bucks County Heroes Scholarship Fund , which provides educational scholarships to the children of local first responders — law enforcement, firefighters, EMS personnel, and correctional officers — who have been killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty. This cause is especially close to our hearts; Officer Gregg’s son, Kyle, was a recipient of this very scholarship, allowing him to pursue his education in the wake of unimaginable loss. Your participation helps honor sacrifices like Officer Gregg’s and supports the families they’ve left behind.

As a proud Newtown-based company, we at Always Advancing are honored to play a part in this meaningful local tradition by producing the custom finisher medals and quarter zips for the inaugural race, featured below. Being able to contribute to an event that celebrates community, gratitude, and remembrance, right here in our hometown, means so much to our team. We’re thrilled to help bring this event to life and cannot wait to see our work worn and displayed by participants on race day.

Organized by Boss Events

The Newtown Turkey Trot is organized by Boss Events , a fellow Newtown-based company known for the successful Shamrock Shuffle, which has raised thousands for A Love For Life and other charitable causes. Expect a professionally managed, family-friendly race that welcomes runners and walkers of all ages.

Registration ends on November 23rd, less than one month away! Sign up now to secure your spot.

If you’re planning a race, fundraiser, or any other type of special event, Always Advancing would be proud to partner with you to design and produce custom apparel, awards, and merchandise that capture the spirit of your occasion. ur occasion Empty headingEmpty heading

On the Run with Diplo and Mascot Sports

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Medals. Music. Movement. ��

Always Advancing is proud to announce an expanded partnership with Mascot Sports , the endurance event production company behind iconic races such as The Oakland Turkey Trot, The Bay Bridge Half, and The Livermore Half.

We began working with Mascot Sports after a meeting with their team at Running USA 2022. Shortly thereafter, we began producing medals, shirts and awards for many of Mascot's events.

In the past few years, Mascot has continued to produce and grow all of the same events, and they are now producing large-scale experience events for high-profile clients such as Diplo (Diplo’s Run Club) and Travis Barker (Run Travis Run) , which we in turn now have the privilege of creating the race medals and shirts for as well!

To date, we have made 125,000 medals and 125,000 shirts for Diplo's Run Club's events, held in various cities throughout the country. Each event registration includes a 5K run and a post-race party and concert by Diplo himself!

These innovative events fuse music, movement, and community, reflecting Mascot’s mission to make endurance experiences more inclusive and culture-driven. It's an honor to be a part of and contribute to the growing intersection between endurance sports and popular culture.

Major Partnerships. Major Medals.

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 16:08:17 GMT

Advancing Marathon History: Sydney Just Went MAJOR!

2025 was the third year in a row that Always Advancing has had the honor of creating the medals for the Sydney Marathon. Each year has been special, but this year's medals were especially momentous as this was the first year the TCS Sydney Marathon presented by Asics officially became an Abbott World Marathon Major!

Sydney is now the second Abbott World Marathon Major that we produce the medals for. (Read more about our partnership with the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and Chicago Event Management here .) We are very grateful to work with these distinguished events that bring together thousands of people from all over the world.

Creating the medals for Abbott World Marathon Majors is an honor in and of itself, but it means even more to us here at Always Advancing due to our partnership with AbbottWMM.

Ten years ago this month, our art team worked with AbbottWMM to create the original Six Star Medal, featured above. This prestigious display is awarded to runners who complete all of the six original Majors; each Major has an individual coin (produced by us) that runners insert into these displays. We also make displays that can house fewer coins for runners who have completed two or more Majors, like the three coin display shown above.

Photos: TCS Sydney Marathon on Instagram

We are excited to continue our partnerships with both AbbottWMM as a whole and the Sydney Marathon individually. Our mission has always been to provide events with unique and high-quality awards and apparel that participants will wear with pride, and it was a very rewarding experience to see that mission come to life with Sydney's milestone 2025 medals.

Always Advancing Now Provides Medals to All 7 Continents

hannah@alwaysadvancing.net (Hannah Borish) — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 15:58:24 GMT

Always Advancing Joins the Seven Continents Club

We are thrilled to announce that due to our partnership with Marathon Tours & Travel and their Antarctica Marathon ® , Always Advancing now provides medals for events on all seven continents! We created the medals for the 2025 Antarctica Marathon ® , which took place in March, and we are currently working on the 2026 medal. We also had the honor of creating the most recent Seven Continents Club ® medals for Marathon Tours & Travel, awarded to runners who complete a marathon, half marathon, or ultra marathon on each continent!

"To date, 758 men and 426 women have completed this exclusive quest at the marathon distance. Additionally, 48 men and 91 women have completed a half marathon on all seven continents. Alongside these achievements, 3 people have completed the quest at ultra marathon distance; 2 men and 1 woman. We also have 9 men and 7 women who are SCC Finishers at both the marathon and half marathon level." - Marathon Tours & Travel

Since our partnership with Marathon Tours & Travel began last year, we have also created their Arctic Marathon and Polar Challenge medals (pictured above). The Arctic Marathon took place in Greenland in September, and the Polar Challenge medal was awarded to runners who completed both the Arctic and Antarctic Marathons (or other qualifying distance)!

We also supply the medals and/or apparel for some of the biggest endurance events around the globe, including:

North America: The Bank of America Chicago Marathon

South America: Maratón de Santiago

Europe: Ironman World Championships in Nice

Australia: The TCS Sydney Marathon

Asia: The Techcombank Ho Chi Minh City International Marathon

Africa: The Ironman South Africa in Nelson Mandela Bay

And many more!

We are very grateful for the opportunity to support runners and events all over the world. Interested in learning more about our services and how we can help elevate your event? Contact us today by calling (215) 295-1133 or clicking here !

Running USA 2025

hannah@alwaysadvancing.net (Hannah Borish) — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 18:13:59 GMT

Annual Industry Conference Recap

Our team always has a great time at the annual Running USA Industry Conference, and this year was no different! Presented by Haku, the conference brought together leaders, innovators, and passionate professionals from across the running industry. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share best practices, and discuss the trends shaping the future of races and events. Through educational sessions, collaborative workshops, and all the moments in between, we gained valuable insights that will help us continue to elevate our products and services so you can provide your race participants the best experience possible.

This year's conference took place in Louisville, KY, and it was a wonderful place to host the event. The city’s vibrant culture, rich history, and of course world-renowned bourbon distilleries made for a perfect backdrop. We had the chance to explore local sights and enjoy the warm Southern hospitality. We also had the honor of hosting the happy hour the last night of the conference, which was a fantastic opportunity to unwind and connect with other atendees. We were thrilled to see so many people enjoying the custom whiskey glasses we created for the occasion. Click here for a glimpse of what the glasses looked like in case you missed it.

Ready to create something special for your participants or team members? Contact us today!

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World Congress of AIMS 2024

hannah@alwaysadvancing.net (Hannah Borish) — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 15:50:21 GMT

24th World Congress of Aims - Hanoi, Vietnam

As the official medal sponsor for the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races, we were honored to attend the 24th annual AIMS world conference last week in Hanoi, Vietnam. The event brought together over 50 of the world’s most prestigious running organizations, creating an incredible opportunity for global networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. Members from both our U.S. and Asia teams were thrilled to represent Always Advancing at this significant gathering, where innovation, sustainability, and the future of distance running took center stage.

A big emphasis of the conference was sustainability. As a company committed to reducing environmental impact and supporting the running community with eco-friendly solutions, we’re proud to contribute to the ongoing conversation about sustainability in the events we sponsor. One of our sales reps, Jon Fritz, had the opportunity to speak to the congress about our specific efforts at Always Advancing: medals produced with 100% recycled materials, recycled apparel, and more.

We left the conference energized and more committed than ever to driving positive change in the race industry. As Always Advancing continues to grow and innovate, we remain focused on our mission to deliver exceptional products while prioritizing the health of our planet. We’re excited to continue our work as AIMS’ official medal sponsor, and we look forward to supporting even more races and runners in the years to come with high-quality products that make every step of the journey meaningful.

Run Now, Wine Later

hannah@alwaysadvancing.net (Hannah Borish) — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 15:09:50 GMT

...But Not Too Much Later!

Run Now

We are thrilled to have created the medals and merchandise for the annual Run Now Wine Later 5k in New Hope again this year! This event is always so much fun and we are grateful to be a part of it. Read on for event details and to learn about what your registration gets you!

When: Sunday, September 29th at 8:30am

What: 5k Run or Walk through the charming streets of New Hope - followed by a fun wine festival (details below)!

Where: The race starts at the New Hope-Solebury School District Main Campus (180 W Bridge St, New Hope, PA 18938).

Wine Later

After completing the scenic 3.1 mile course, you'll cross the finish line at the Bucks County Playhouse, where free food and wine samples await you, along with other goodies! Keep that endorphin rush going by enjoying all the festival has to offer while taking in the fall air and beautiful river views.

If you don't want to participate in the 5k, you can skip the running and go straight to wining now ! Cheer on your friends and family as they cross the finish line - when registering, simply select the "Festival Only" option.

Every participant in the 5k will receive this custom, extremely soft long sleeve and functioning wine opener medal. There will also be more merchandise like the commemorative plastic wine glass shown here available for purchase!

Contact Info:
215-295-1133

info@eventsbyboss.com

Follow RNWL on Social Media!

Instagram / Facebook

Trail Running Safety

hannah@alwaysadvancing.net (Hannah Borish) — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 16:26:56 GMT

Gear Up with Always Advancing

At Always Advancing, we are committed to helping our clients practice safety during their events. We recognize that it is especially important to prioritize safety during trail running; from proper clothing to fuel and first aid, there are many factors that can affect runner safety while on the trail. That's why we've curated a list of essential gear we can provide to keep your race participants safe and comfortable every step of the way.

1. Portable Chargers: Stay Connected

Access to reliable communication is crucial when you’re several miles out on a remote trail. The last thing you want when you’re in need of help is a dead phone. Always Advancing now offers portable chargers that are lightweight and easy to carry yet powerful and reliable, ensuring that your devices stay charged for the entire run. Don't let a dead battery leave you stranded – keep a portable charger handy and stay connected wherever the trail leads.

2. Protective Clothing: Dressed for Success

It is vital to be prepared for a wide range of weather and terrain conditions when you’re trail running. Made from breathable polyester and spandex, our customizable arm sleeves provide warmth and protection from the elements without slowing you down. Having the proper footwear is also important when you’re running on uneven ground; protect yourself against scratches, mud, insect bites, and more with our customizable socks and/or gaiters. Our socks and gaiters can be made from a variety of materials, including cotton, polyester, and fleece.

3. Vest Packs: Carry More for Less

When hitting the trails, it's crucial to have everything you need within easy reach. Our vest packs are designed with runner comfort and convenience in mind, offering ample storage for essentials such as energy gels, nutrition bars, first aid supplies, and more. These vests are lightweight, breathable, and customizable to ensure a perfect fit for all. Whether embarking on a short trail run or an ultramarathon, our vest packs allow users to carry everything they need without the hassle of bulky bags or uncomfortable belts.

4. Handheld Water Bottles: Stay Hydrated

Every athlete understands the importance of hydration, especially on longer trail runs or races when access to water stops may be few and far between. At Always Advancing, we can create handheld, collapsible water bottles in a variety of sizes, allowing you to stay hydrated wherever you are. For larger water storage options, ask us about our hydration packs with a built-in water bladder that can hold up to 2 liters of water.

5. Reflective Apparel and Accessories: Enhanced Visibility

Visibility is especially paramount to safety when you’re on the trail, particularly in the mornings and evenings when light levels are low. The ability to see and be seen greatly reduces the risk of collisions and accidents on the trail. Always Advancing’s brightly colored apparel and accessory options will help increase participants’ visibility. We can create brightly colored shirts, jackets, and more, and we can add reflective elements like zippers and lettering to our apparel, making those early morning runs or evening races as safe as possible. Additionally, our LED light-up bracelets enhance safety by offering an extra layer of security. With multiple settings, users can choose between steady, slow, or fast flashing.

Always Advancing remains committed to promoting safe racing and training practices. Contact us today to see what we can create for your next event, and share this post with a friend or family member to spread the word about trail running safety!

Summer Training Essentials

hannah@alwaysadvancing.net (Hannah Borish) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 14:01:33 GMT

Products to Keep You Cool

It’s hard to believe, but we’re almost halfway through July already! This means that for those of us in the northern hemisphere, the summer heat is now in full force. For many endurance athletes, their summer training is also in full force as they prepare for upcoming fall marathons, triathlons, and more.

It can be hard to manage serious training during these hot summer days, which is why at Always Advancing, we offer a wide range of products to help athletes train safely and stay cool. Check out the list below for products your team members or race participants are sure to love!

Handheld water bottles: stay hydrated during your training sessions with our handheld water bottles! Equipped with a strap for easy carrying, we can make these collapsible bottles in a variety of sizes.
Car seat covers: keep your car seats clean and dry after a hard workout with our customizable covers! An added bonus: these covers also protect you from hot car seats! See how easy they are to use here.
Sweat towels: keep the sweat out of your eyes and stay dry during your workout with custom cooling towels. We can make any size towel out of a variety of materials.
Tank tops: we can make tank tops in a variety of materials as well, including dry-fit polyester which is known for its moisture-wicking properties.
Hats/visors: keep the sun off your face with our custom hats and visors! Our baseball hats and visors can be made with adjustable straps to fit all head sizes. Check out some of the different hat styles we've made here.
Sunglasses: protect your eyes in style by adding your company or team logo to our sunglasses.
USB fan: small fan, big breeze. Easily bring this portable fan with you on workouts to provide some much-needed relief from the summer sun!
Always Recover Flex Gel Sleeves: Made with advanced hydra-gel technology, our customizable FlexGel sleeves provide targeted hot or cold therapy to help you recover quicker. Learn more about our FlexGel sleeves here!

Check out this video of Hannah preparing for a summer track session using almost all of the products listed above!

Contact us today to help your team members or event participants train safely this summer and head into the fall season prepared.

Pride Month: Taking Strides Forward

hannah@alwaysadvancing.net (Hannah Borish) — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 14:21:27 GMT

Celebrating Progress and Promoting Inclusion in the Endurance World

June is recognized and celebrated as Pride Month in countries and locations all over the world. The origins of Pride Month date back only 55 years (exactly 55 years ago today, actually), to the Stonewall Riots that took place in New York City in 1969. The Stonewall Riots were a response by members of the LGBTQIA+ community and allies to the police raid that happened early on June 28th at the Stonewall Inn, a gay club located in Greenwich Village. America’s first pride parade took place exactly one year after the raid, on June 28 ^th , 1970.

Our society has come a long way in terms of LGBTQIA+ rights in the last 55 years, but unfortunately, discrimination still exists today, including in the endurance world. A survey taken by Runner’s World in 2021 found that many queer runners are afraid to join a local run club or even go on a group run for fear of being alienated or not feeling represented in the group. Only 40% of LGBTQIA+ runners surveyed said that they felt welcomed and included in the running community. The survey also found that "a stereotypical image of what it means to be a runner—thin, white, and cisgender—was a theme mentioned frequently in the responses to open-ended questions… Creating visibility for runners who don’t fit the stereotype is absolutely key.”

At Always Advancing, we are committed to making the endurance community more inclusive and increasing visibility and representation for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. We believe everyone should feel proud of who they are and be able to love who they love without fear of discrimination. We are honored to be able to work with organizations who support LGBTQIA+ movements every year. Below are some of the awesome events we created medals and other products for this year!

Sources:

Joint Base Andrews

Runner's World

Earth Month - Always Advancing, Always Sustainable

Wed, 01 May 2024 18:00:00 GMT

At Always Advancing, we're committed to practicing sustainability in every way possible, every month of the year.

Earth Month may have ended yesterday, but that doesn't mean the need for sustainable practices ended with it. At Always Advancing, we are committed to practicing sustainability in every way possible, every month of the year.

We offer:

100% recycled and recyclable medals
ribbons and apparel made from recycled and eco-friendly material
carbon-neutral shipping
and more!

Our recycled medals are made from 100% recycled zinc alloy, which is also a recycl able material - if you end up with leftover medals after your event that you don't know what to do with, we can help you find a metal recycling center near you that can take the medals and recycle them. Some of these centers will even compensate you for the medals!

Our apparel can be made using recycled polyester. R ecycled polyester gives a second life to material that would otherwise end up in the landfill or the ocean. I ts production also requires 59% less energy compared to virgin polyester. Beyond recycled polyester, we also offer apparel made from bamboo, which is a renewable and biodegradable material, meaning it has a minimal environmental impact. Furthermore, bamboo is fast-growing and does not require pesticides or fertilizers during growth.

If you're looking for ways to make your event more environmentally friendly, we're here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our sustainable options or to get a quote!

Women's History Month: Making Strides

hannah@alwaysadvancing.net (Hannah Borish) — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 16:15:00 GMT

A History of Women in Running

Photo by Getty Images/Sports Illustrated

In honor of Women’s History Month, let’s take a jog down memory lane and celebrate the brave and impactful women who toed the line before us.

The starting gun fires in 1928 when the Olympic Games cautiously opened its track and field events to women, only to backtrack and impose restrictive measures on their participation after reports were made that multiple women collapsed after running the 800m. After that, women weren't allowed to race any distance longer than 200m.

Now obviously, the marathon is a lot longer than 200m, and women weren’t legally allowed to participate in marathons until 1972. However, that didn’t stop several women from finding ways to run before that. In 1966, Roberta Gibb hid in the bushes near the starting line of the Boston Marathon until the gun went off, at which time she burst out of the bushes and went on to complete the full marathon. Another creative tactic was used by Katherine Switzer the following year, when she filled out an application for the Boston Marathon using only her initials, "K.V. Switzer." Officials didn’t know she was a woman until she showed up at the starting line, at which time they tried to physically remove her (as seen in the photo above), but they were unsuccessful, and she also went on to complete the whole race.

When the A.A.U. permitted its sanctioned marathons (including Boston) to allow women participants in late 1971, eight women started and completed the 1972 Boston Marathon. That same year, six women were allowed to compete in the New York City Marathon, but they were given a handicap: they had to start ten minutes before the men. At the starting line, they sat down in protest.

"The Six Who Sat," photographed by Patrick A. Burns/The New York Times

Now let’s take a moment to pause and recognize the fact that all of these achievements were made by women who didn’t even have sports bras on, because sports bras weren’t invented until 1977!

Hinda Miller, Lisa Lindahl, and Polly Smith (shown in the middle in the photo below) collaboratively created the earliest prototype of the modern sports bra by sewing together two jockstraps. It was initially called the “jock bra,” then “jog bra,” then finally “sports bra.”

Photo from NPR via Lisa Lindahl

"Before the sports bra, no woman would ever take off her shirt. But that's not what's important," Lindahl says. "What's important is the sense of confidence and the ability that the correct athletic gear gives you."

These stories and accomplishments are testaments to the resilience, courage, and strength of women, and are proof that despite people constantly underestimating what women are capable of, we keep proving them wrong. So as we tie up our laces, whether for a casual jog or a competitive race, let’s carry forward the legacy of these remarkable women. Let their determination and perseverance remind us that no distance is too great and no barrier is too high.

Sources:

Outside Online

Runner's World

NPR

One Week Until The Newtown Shamrock Shuffle

hannah@alwaysadvancing.net (Hannah Borish) — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 17:29:59 GMT

Join us for the 8th annual Newtown Shamrock Shuffle!

Go Green or Go Home!

Kick off your St. Patrick's Day weekend with a top o' the mornin' adventure: the 5k starts at 9:00am, followed by a celebratory post-race party which includes live music, a DJ, and of course - beer! Your registration gets you:

A unique finisher medal & quality race shirt
Complimentary post-race beer or a signature cocktail and access to the finish line party
TONS of specials and deals from participating local businesses!

Registration ends on Tuesday, 3/12, and there are less than 100 spots left! Sign up now to reserve your spot!

Packet Pickup Information:

Times:

Tuesday, March 12th from 5pm to 7:30pm

Thursday March 14th from 5pm to 7:30pm

Location:

The Temperance House

5 S State St, Newtown, PA 18940

*Please let us know if you will be unable to pick up your packet at either of these times.

Aside from the finisher medal and shirt seen above, there will also be some awesome merchandise for sale at the event! Follow us on social media for sneak peeks of the items.

A huge thank you to all of our partners and sponsors who help make this event possible each year. A portion of all proceeds will directly benefit A Love for Life , our official charity partner which is dedicated to raising funds for pancreatic cancer research.

Come try your luck (of the Irish) at the Newtown Shamrock Shuffle – you’re sure to find some gold at the end of the rainbow!

Contact Info:
info@eventsbyboss.com

Follow Shamrock Shuffle on Social Media:

Instagram / Facebook

Always Innovating, Always Advancing

hannah@alwaysadvancing.net (Hannah Borish) — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 15:18:34 GMT

Elevate your next event with our newest features and products.

At Always Advancing, we understand that organizing a race, or any event, is no small feat. From the meticulous planning to the execution, we recognize the effort it takes to make every detail fall into place. That’s why we’re committed to alleviating some of that pressure and ensuring your event stands out from the rest; from our fully customizable finisher medals and awards to our innovative apparel and accessory design, we focus on creating products that are as unique as your event and that each participant will wear with pride. Our goal is to not only meet but exceed your expectations, providing you with the tools to make your event a seamless and memorable success.

We have recently released several new products and features that will elevate the experience of your next event.

Glitter and confetti inserts:

Add interest to your awards with our new glitter and confetti inserts. Choose a background that coincides with your theme, pick a glitter color or confetti shape, and watch your medal transform into a magical kaleidoscope of memories.

QR code feature:

Make your medal or shirt interactive by adding a QR code! Not only does this feature add a modern and tech-savvy element to your event, but it also enhances the overall experience for participants. Whether it's linking to race results, event photos, or other exclusive content, the QR code brings an interactive dimension that goes beyond the physical product.

Car seat towel/cover:

As the warmer months approach, we’re taking steps to ensure your racers stay comfortable even after intense workouts. Our new polyester, fully customizable car seat towel/cover is designed to keep seats dry and clean post-swim, run, or muddy cycling session. It's a practical and stylish solution to summer training that your participants are sure to love.

Let us be your partner in creating an unforgettable experience for you and your participants. Whether it's the shimmer of glitter, the convenience of QR codes, the practicality of our car seat cover, or any other idea you can think of, we're here to make your event truly exceptional.

In a world that's always evolving, choose Always Advancing for awards and apparel that reflect the spirit of your event.

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45th Marine Corps Marathon Medal Honors Iconic Moment in American History

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 16:34:40 GMT

Always Advancing is Proud to Produce 2020's Iconic Finisher Medal.

The 45th annual Marine Corps Marathon, like many other events right now, will look different this year. The marathon is being held virtually, so organizers have released the medal ahead of the race to keep runners motivated. News4’s Cory Smith shows us how its design honors an iconic moment in American history.

Marine Corps Marathon

Tue, 26 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The Marine Corps Marathon (MCM), ranked as one of the largest marathons in the world, today signed a five-year partnership extension with Always Advancing, the premier manufacturer of awards, apparel and promotional products. Always Advancing will create and manufacture more than 50,000 masterfully designed logo embossed participation medals for the competitors in MCM’s 10 premiere races, beginning with the 17.75K in Quantico, VA, on March 23, 2019.

“Always Advancing has been our partners for several years, and their commitment to assuring our runners have a first-class experience is second to none,” said Rick Nealis, Director, MCM. “Our participants look forward to completing the race each year just so they can take home the outstanding medals that Always Advancing provides.”

“The Marine Corps Marathon Organization is one of the premiere organizations in the world,” said Chris Seiler, co-founder, Always Advancing. “We pride ourselves in creating a uniquely designed product for the Marine Corps Marathon Organization and its competitors. One which captures their accomplishment and one which will evoke long-lasting memories for the participants.”

Marine Corps Marathon Organization conducts a series of running events, showcasing physical fitness and generating community goodwill in order to promote the high standards and discipline of the Marine Corps. Annually ranked as one of the largest marathons in the US and the world, the MCM has been recognized as "Best Marathon in the Mid-Atlantic," "Best for Families" and "Best for Beginners." Runners from all 50 states and more than 60 countries participate in the MCM and an annual calendar of events including the Marine Corps Historic Half in Fredericksburg, VA in May and the MCM Event Series conducted aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico. Organized by the men and women of the United States Marine Corps, the MCM is the largest marathon in the world that doesn't offer prize money, instead celebrating the honor, courage and commitment of all finishers.

Always Advancing, established in 2008, is a world-renowned manufacturer of awards, apparel, and promotional products with a specialization in custom finisher medals and ribbons for endurance events. Always Advancing recognizes the hard

We pride ourselves in creating a uniquely designed product for the Marine Corps Marathon Organization and its competitors. One which captures their accomplishment and one which will evoke long-lasting memories for the participants.
Chris Seiler

Statesman Capitol 10K Partnering With Always Advancing For 2019

Wed, 14 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The Statesman Capitol 10,000, presented by Baylor Scott & White Health, is partnering with Always Advancing, world-renowned manufacturer of awards, apparel, and promotional products, for the 2019 race shirt and medal.

Established in 2008, Always Advancing is based in Newtown, Penn. In addition to athletic events, the company also provides awards, apparel and promotional products for businesses and events of all kinds across the world.

In 2018, we added a finishing touch for the first time in Cap10K history: finishers’ medals. Everyone was so pleased with the quality of that medal that we decided to partner with Always Advancing again for the medal, plus an upgraded and softer 2019 race shirt.
Jeff Simecek, Statesman Capitol 10,000 Race Director.

2017 Philadelphia Marathon

Wed, 22 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

We’re honored to, once again, be the Finisher Medals suppliers of 23rd Annual Philadelphia Marathon. This is our 10th year supplying the medals for this event and and our first year also providing the finisher apparel. Located 45 minutes south of our office in Bucks County PA, the Philadelphia Marathon was one of our first clients and each year we look forward to working closely with their team to listen to their visions and goals for the new year.

For this year’s event Philadelphia wanted to keep the celebration going and not just be seen but heard throughout the city by featuring a, free standing, working Liberty Bell. In today’s virtual world of “Likes, Pins and HashTags” these simple bells could be heard everywhere the runners went long into the night making new real life connections and allowing everyone share their stories in person rather than just on a tiny screen.

For every event Always Advancing works with, it’s important for us to put in the time to learn about what makes your city and event unique. That’s what really takes a Finisher Medal from being just a nice award to a cherished keepsake that reminds them why they can’t wait to come back next year and do it again.

Thanks to the great team at Always Advancing for the awesome 2017 AACR Philadelphia shirts and medals. They were definitely a hit with all of our participants
- Peggy Jastrzemski, Administrative Services Supervisor Philadelphia Parks & Recreation

San Luis Obispo 5th Anniversary Collectable Cowbell Finisher Medal

Wed, 01 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The San Luis Obispo Marathon, Half Marathon + 5K presented by LeftLaneSports.com has released a collectible finisher medal for its 5th anniversary event edition. Since its inaugural year in 2012, the event has given real cowbell medals to the top male and female finishers, celebrating San Luis Obispo’s rich farming culture. All finishers in the Marathon and Half Marathon will receive this unique, exclusive ringing cowbell medal. The San Luis Obispo running tradition produced by Race SLO , the Central Coast’s largest running event with 4,000 participants, will be held on April 30-May 1 in Endurance Town USA. Read more here.

Our 5th anniversary cowbell medal is truly something special, and Always Advancing created this beautiful, collectible medal that we look forward to presenting to all our Marathon and Half Marathon finishers as a reward for their dedication, hard work and achievement. This year’s theme of ‘MORE COWBELL’ was chosen to exemplify the pure joy and pride our Race SLO community has for this annual family fitness weekend of races
Samantha Pruitt, Race SLO Founder & CEO

2017 Rock N Roll Las Vegas

Mon, 23 May 2016 14:02:45 GMT

We're excited to supply the 2017 Rock'n'Roll Las Vegas Marathon & Half Marathon Finisher Medals. This medal captures the spirit of the Las Vegas nightlife with an Electro Black finish, dual spinners and glow-in-the-dark enamel. They also feature a wide base so runners have more options to show them off at home or the office.

The Rock'n'Roll Las Vegas team know their runners are expecting to be "wowed" every year so we made it our priority to work closely with them and our factory, on even the smallest details, to make their vision come to life.
Michael Lanctot, Always Advancing Creative Director

Baltimore 10 Miler Premium Pull-Over & Finisher Medal

Mon, 14 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Always Advancing has the pleasure of providing Corrigan Sport’s Baltimore 10 miler with beautifully designed custom medals and apparel! This quarter zip jacket provides comfort, style and functionality all in one! The unique design of this jacket is made with the runner’s body in mind. The material underneath the arms and around the back is crafted and placed appropriately for flexibility and comfort of the torso while actively running. Thumbholes are an added bonus! Be sure to check out this amazing event on June 4th of this year and visit their website www.baltimoretenmiler.com .

For more information on how you can provide your runners with beautiful medals and apparel at an affordable rate, make your inquiry to information@alwaysadvancing.net .

I have been working with Always Advancing now for nearly 4 years now. In the beginning, Always Advancing only produced our medals. The look and quality of our medals since we’ve been working with Always Advancing has gone from a C to an A++! They are one of my favorite vendors to work with. Communication is excellent across the board- from the President of the company, to the Art Dept. and even the head of production. More recently, Always Advancing began producing soft goods. The quality and pricing is unparalleled. I would highly recommend Always Advancing to anyone looking for a great gear partner with quality product and quality service.
Brie Burdych, Corrigan Sports Enterprises

Marine Corps Marathon

Thu, 10 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT

2015 was the 39th successful year for the Marine Corps Marathon! Always Advancing has the privilege of supplying the Marine Corps Marathon their outstanding, unique medals.

Always Advancing administers the same incredible customer service to every event no matter their size or budget. Marine Corps Marathon was no exception. K. P. Delahoussaye had nothing but great things to say about Always Advancing and their services.

Contact Always Advancing today to turn your ideas into a reality .

For more information on the Marine Corps Marathon, please visit http://www.marinemarathon.com .

On behalf of the Marine Corps Marathon, Marine Corps Base Quantico, I would like to extend my sincerest appreciation for Always Advancing’s outstanding support. Their efforts contributed significantly to the overall success of the 39th Marine Corps Marathon. It was very pleasant working with such a professional staff. Always Advancing’s staff knew exactly what we wanted and needed to make our marathon a success. Everything was done quickly and professionally.
– K. P. Delahoussaye

Top 25 Medals Of 2014

Sat, 01 Aug 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Marathon & Beyond recently announced the winners of the Top 25 Finisher Medals for 2014, and Always Advancing is proud to have nine medals featured on the list.

Always Advancing is honored to have 8 of our medals recognized in the Top 25. We aim to bring the spirit of your marathons to life with our medals.

Our primary goal is to provide a medal that athletes can be proud to display as a memento of their achievement. It is something that we strive for on the onset of our relationship. By working to understand the goals of the event and building lasting relationships with events, we have found that we can work with them to create something that they take pride in presenting to their athletes. We are happy to play a role in their achievement.

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Elevate your next event with our newest features and products.

45th Marine Corps Marathon Medal Honors Iconic Moment in American History

Always Advancing is Proud to Produce 2020's Iconic Finisher Medal.

Marine Corps Marathon

Statesman Capitol 10K Partnering With Always Advancing For 2019

2017 Philadelphia Marathon

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Baltimore 10 Miler Premium Pull-Over & Finisher Medal

Marine Corps Marathon

Top 25 Medals Of 2014

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Join Us for the Inaugural Newtown Turkey Trot this Thanksgiving Morning!

Medals. Music. Movement. ��

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215-295-1133

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