American Trail Running Association’s (ATRA) board considered several options for a 2026 theme and landed on Roots and Horizons. There’s no doubt that our sport is growing and changing and as we take time to reflect on the journey thus far, the origins, heritage, and values of trail running can be measured and examined. These roots provide a grounding base and help create a focus on a limitless horizon. The ATRA team looks forward to sharing stories and exploring opportunities that inspire, celebrate, and emphasize this theme.
Trail running provides a challenge, along with amazing vistas.
Said Adam Chase, president of ATRA, “The 2026 theme is all about continuity and the fact that trail running is such a multi-generational sport, where the young inspire the old and vice versa. I used to say I only won races because the fast runners didn’t show up that day. But it could easily have been said that experienced runners hadn’t made an appearance, as the roots help drive the horizons. And that is how ATRA will be pushed by roots to reach new horizons.”
ATRA secretary Corinne Shalvoy noted, “Its roots are what make the sport of trail running so special. From the bar bets that grew into iconic races to the lore of handwritten running diaries, we are a sport built on stories, legends, and knowledge passed down from generation to generation. As we grow and evolve, it is the pillars of our pioneers and their wild and free approach to exploring their limits that allow us to hone the craft now and in the future. The horizon is a vast one, filled with distances and times no one thinks possible. Let us not forget where we started, let us celebrate how far we have come, and let us dream of how incredible we can be.”
Corinne’s uncle, Rick Trujillo running the Pikes Peak Marathon, a race he won 5 times.
ATRA advisory board member Ellen Miller added, “I am elated with ATRA’s Roots and Horizons Theme for 2026. Trail runners can honor our ‘roots’ in trail running because they have been the threshold for many adventures, from running trail and mountain races to climbing the highest peaks! With joyous anticipation we can look outward to new horizons, and the possibility to embrace new opportunities and perspectives.”
ATRA advisory board member Andy Ames commented, “When I think of roots my first thought is of history – how trail running has gone from fringe to mainstream. But roots are much more than that. In the plant world roots provide nourishment, security, and foundation. For the trail runner, despite creating the occasional obstacle, I thank roots for adding stability to the trail and acting as helpful steps.
“The horizon is all around us. Wherever we look, the earth touches the sky. As runners the horizon represents the impossible and everlasting goal. No matter how far we run the horizon will always extend further. Roots and horizons is the perfect metaphor for trail running. It represents our past, future and our connection to the world.”
A group trail run from Lumpy Ridge Trailhead near Estes Park, CO.
ATRA advisory board member Tim Nooney said, “For many of us, trail running’s roots are grounded in a simple need to explore nature and find our potential. As the sport grows, it’s clear that chasing our broadening horizon means connecting like-minded groups together and creating spaces for those just starting out.”
ATRA advisory board member Mark Phillips reflected, “I completed the Pacific crest Trail through hike this year and was enraptured by what my eyes took in and what my feet touched. I can think of no better theme to capture the magic of being on trails, whether hiking or running than Roots and Horizons.”
Consider this an open invitation to follow along with ATRA as we look to the past, realize the present, and take a look into the future. Share your ideas, experiences, and stories and help us build on our theme throughout the year.
The Dipsea Race is steeped in history. First run in 1905.
ATRA themes through the years
Roots and Horizons is our tenth annual theme and follows last year’s Innovation, 2024’s Better Together, 2023’s Celebrate Youth on the Trails, 2022’s Trail Running is for Every Body, 2021’s Resilience, 2020’s Climate Action, 2019’s Trail Running Responsibly, 2018’s Trail Stewardship: Leaving a Lasting Legacy, and our 2017 theme Community: Building Trail Running Connections.
Celebrating roots and horizon with ATRA stickers.
