Blistering Pace Race Management President Michelle La Sala will be recognized with the 2024 Emerging Industry Leader Award by the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security. The award is given to a professional who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in addressing safety and security issues. The awards presentation will take place at the National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition July 9-11 in Phoenix, AZ.
La Sala serves as Race Director for both the San Francisco Half Marathon and the Napa Valley Marathon and Half Marathon, while also filling key operational roles for the Big Sur International Marathon and Monterey Bay Half Marathon. Under La Sala’s direction, safety and security planning has been expanded over the last year to include crisis communication planning, enhanced collaboration with the National Weather Service for race-day forecasting, and implementation of table-top exercises with agency partners.
“I am honored to be recognized by NCS4 with the Emerging Leader award,” remarked La Sala. “Safety and security are always at the forefront throughout the event planning process, and we strive to grow and improve each year. I appreciate the support of our public agency partners who play a critical role in this effort, as well as industry colleagues who are always willing to share best practices.”
Earlier this year, La Sala was recognized by Running USA with the 2024 Women’s Leadership award at the national conference in Orlando, FL. She was also awarded the 2024 Association Service Award by the Pacific Association of USA Track and Field for her contributions to the Northern California road racing community and her board role as Chief Financial Officer of the Pacific Association Foundation.
About Blistering Pace Race Management: Founded in 2016, BPRM works in a variety of race management capacities, ranging from staffing to full operational oversight. Clients include the San Francisco Half Marathon (10K & 5K), the Napa Valley Marathon and Half Marathon, the Big Sur Marathon Foundation, Chicago Event Management, and the New York Road Runners. For more information, visit blisteringpace.com.
