The World Mountain Running Association (WMRA) is pleased to announce the newly created WMRA ATHLETES COMMISSION, established following the conclusion of the 2025 WORLD MOUNTAIN & TRAIL RUNNING CHAMPIONSHIPS (WMTRC) IN CANFRANC–PIRINEOS.
This renewed Commission strengthens WMRA’s commitment to athlete representation, transparency, and inclusive governance as the sport continues to evolve at global level.

The Commission operates under the coordination of WMRA Council member John BOWDEN (NZL) and brings together internationally experienced athletes dedicated to helping guide the future of mountain running.

The WMRA Athletes Commission exists to:

• Ensure the WMRA Council benefits from the perspective, experience, and technical insight of current and former international athletes.
• Provide a formal structure for athletes to express their views on matters affecting the discipline.
• Strengthen the sport through athlete-centred governance and continuous dialogue.

The Athletes Commission is composed of up to twelve members, selected according to WMRA’s established eligibility and election procedures. To ensure that the body reflects the competitive reality of modern mountain running, all members must have competed in a senior WMRA Championship or in the WMTRC Short Trail, Uphill, or Classic events within the past ten years. At least half of the Commission must consist of athletes who raced at the 2023 WMTRC in Innsbruck or the 2025 WMTRC, ensuring recent and relevant championship experience.

In order to maintain balanced international representation, no more than two athletes from any single country may serve simultaneously. Members are appointed for a four-year term and may stand for a second term provided they continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

The Athletes Commission serves as a consultative and advisory body whose primary responsibility is to support the WMRA Council by offering insights grounded in the best interests of mountain running. Its members raise relevant matters directly through the designated liaison, currently Council member John Bowden, and may provide structured feedback and technical guidance whenever requested by the Council.

The Commission also facilitates a consistent and open communication flow between the global athlete community and the WMRA, helping ensure that the needs, concerns, and aspirations of athletes remain central to governance. While its work is global in scope, the Commission operates mainly through electronic communication, allowing seamless collaboration across continents. In all its actions, the Commission is expected to uphold and reinforce the spirit, values, and integrity of mountain running.

The renewed Athletes Commission reflects WMRA’s long-standing belief that mountain running must grow WITH and FOR its athletes.
It plays a crucial role in:

• Supporting WMRA’s global development strategy
• Enhancing athlete involvement in governance
• Strengthening equality, diversity, and transparency
• Ensuring the sport continues to evolve with integrity and athlete welfare at its core