Press Release - Boston Athletic Association - 8/23/22

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

     Abbott World Marathon Majors and Mass Participation World partner 
                       to inspire a return to running                 

        #TogetherWeMove Encourages The World To Get Back To Racing

The Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM) and Mass Participation World 
(MPW) have joined forces to launch #togetherwemove in a bid to encourage 
the world back to mass participation events after the industry hit some big 
hurdles during the COVID-19 pandemic.

An inspirational video and marketing toolkit has been created for running 
events across the globe as they entice runners back to their in-person 
events. It aims to remind runners and supporters of the joy of taking part 
together; overcoming adversity together; and the wonderful achievements and 
experiences that mass events provide.

A study by MPW and other industry research showed that during the peak of 
COVID-19, participating in outdoor activities was fundamentally safe. From 
more than 10 million participants, there were only five COVID-19 cases 
reported as a possible result of connecting with others at these events.

The Abbott World Marathon Majors Race Directors and Chief Executive Officer 
(CEO) are supporting the campaign as they recognize the importance of all 
event tiers returning to pre-pandemic levels. Not only for event organizers 
but also for the health and wellbeing of the global population as the 
lock-down and travel bans led to a more sedentary lifestyle for many.

Dawna Stone, CEO of AbbottWMM said, “We are delighted to see that the world 
has returned to events and the Majors are back in full force this season. 
The industry overall however is struggling to bounce back from the change 
in behaviour the pandemic brought about and we want to do what we can to 
support and encourage that reversal.”

Chris Robb, CEO of MPW said, “Mass Participation World (MPW) is excited to 
be partnering with the Abbott World Marathon Majors to support the industry 
with the #togetherwemove digital toolkit at this challenging time. One of 
our key missions is to facilitate global collaboration. We have no doubt 
that this initiative will help organizers to remind participants of the joy 
of participating together which in turn has the potential to positively 
impact the health and wellbeing of millions.”

The video was produced by UK-based agency Cravens and voiced by Steve Cram, 
the former World Champion middle distance runner and renowned athletics 
commentator.

To download the film and digital media kit please visit: 
www.massparticipationworld.com/twmkit/

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