https://worldathletics.org/waendurancemedicine The road race industry has been witness to a tremendous amount of growth. Even during a down-turn in the country’s economic state, road races and individual athletic events have exceeded business expectations. Races and events are selling out in record time, the numbers of participants are reaching unprecedented levels. The total number of events held
each year in the United States and in Europe has reached levels beyond anyone’s expectations. Running USA numbers indicate there are over 650 marathons, 1200 half marathons and 2500 10K’s. Add to those totals, an even higher number of events that include 5K's, triathlon’s and charity walks. During this explosion of growth, we have also been witness to an hightened sense of concern for runner safety and emergency preparedness. The International Institute of Race Medicine, which started out with a small group of medical professionals interested in addressing this problem, realized that we needed to match the industry's growth – an industry that goes well beyond the borders of the United States. As you will see in the various aspects of this new website, IIRM has a primary mission… that mission is to provide a central site of information for those interested in providing the safest possible environment for our athletes. Our industry has no set standards of care, no means of collecting information and data, and no educational component to assist all levels of medical professionals, working or volunteering at these events. By no means is this website complete. What you are about to review is only the beginning. Future improvements rely on continued input from our members and others willing to share information.
