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WORLD MOUNTAIN RUNNING ASSOCIATION

41ST WMRA CONGRESS ELECTS NEW PRESIDENT AND COUNCIL DURING WORLD MOUNTAIN AND TRAIL RUNNING CHAMPIONSHIPS

The World Mountain Running Association (WMRA) held its 41st annual Congress this morning in Canfranc, Spain, coinciding with the 2025 World Mountain and Trail Running Championships Canfranc-Pirineos. Delegates from across the globe gathered for this milestone assembly, which marked a moment of change and continuity for the sport.

One of the most significant decisions of the Congress was the election of Sarah Rowell (GBR) as the new President of the WMRA. A respected figure in the mountain running community, Rowell takes over leadership from Tomo Šarf (SLO), who has served with dedication since 1999. Delegates warmly thanked Šarf for more than two decades of commitment to developing mountain running worldwide.

Gratitude was also extended to Nancy Hobbs (USA), who has been part of the WMRA Council since 2001, contributing tirelessly to the growth and promotion of the sport across continents.

Alongside the presidential transition, the Congress also confirmed a new WMRA Council, reflecting both international diversity and a blend of new and returning expertise:

  • Omar Hernández (Spain)
  • Stéphane Scalvo (France)
  • Jason Bryant (USA)
  • Marcel Matanin (Slovakia) – re-elected
  • Tito Tiberti (Italy)
  • John Bowden (New Zealand)- re-elected

With Rowell at the helm and a fresh, dynamic council in place, the WMRA looks forward to building on its proud legacy while driving the sport into an exciting new era.

As mountain running continues to expand globally, the newly elected President, Sarah Rowell (GBR), expressed her great enthusiasm for advancing the worldwide development of the discipline. She emphasised her commitment to working closely with World Athletics and other partners, including ITRA and the IAU, while underlining the importance of always respecting the culture of mountain running, as well as safeguarding the sport’s fairness and integrity.

The steps taken today in Canfranc underscore the WMRA’s commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and supporting athletes and organizers at every level.