Youth
Rising New York Road Runners Youth Ambassadors

Rising New York Road Runners Youth Ambassadors

The Rising New York Road Runners Youth Ambassador program is a free initiative empowering youth to harness running’s transformative power through improved communication skills.

The program begins with a comprehensive six-week training workshop specifically designed to help participants improve their presentation and communication skills.

During the engaging sessions, the young individuals learn essential skills such as speech fundamentals, public speaking, and audience engagement, equipping them to share their personal running stories in a manner that motivates and inspires runners of all ages.

Aligned with the New York Road Runners’ vision of fostering healthier lives and stronger communities, the Youth Ambassadors program extends beyond the initial training workshops into a year-long experience filled with exciting opportunities. Running plays a vital role in this journey, promoting physical fitness, discipline, and teamwork among the youth ambassadors. Participants will have the chance to highlight their newly acquired skills at various prestigious New York Road Runners events. These engagements include:

Speaking at marquee events like the United Airlines NYC Half and the TCS New York City Marathon
Engaging with professional athletes and key members of the running industry
Attending press events, where news reporters may interview them

Through this program, the young ambassadors develop their communication skills and become influential voices in the running community, inspiring others while building confidence and leadership skills.

Program Requirements

To apply to be a Rising New York Road Runners Youth Ambassador, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be enrolled in 5th – 12th grades
Have participated in at least two Rising NYRR youth running events
Be available to attend all six summer training sessions

Apply

Key Dates

March 17: Application Opens
April 28: Application Closes
May 5 – May 23: Mandatory Group Interviews
June 2: Participants Selected
June 10: Orientation
July 8, 15, 22, & 29 and August 5 & 12: Training Workshop Sessions

For more information, please contact Raymond Moya at youthambassadors@nyrr.org.

New York Road Runners strives to host inclusive, sustainable, and accessible events that enable all individuals to engage. Accepted participants will have the opportunity to request reasonable accessibility accommodations to participate in this program. Please email accessibility@nyrr.org.

Rising NYRR Youth Ambassadors Alumni

After completing their year-long commitment as a Youth Ambassador, participants can join the alumni program. The Rising NYRR Youth Ambassador alumni program provides ongoing opportunities to refine presentation and communication skills through public-speaking engagements, contributions to a youth blog, participation in media events, and so much more, including the chance for alumni to stay actively involved by running in our youth events. Beyond these experiences, alumni join a community of like-minded peers who share a passion for running and leadership, allowing them to elevate their voice, expand their network, and leave a lasting impact!