National Marathon Safety and Security Summit Set for Dec. 11-13

Marathon and running/endurance event officials from across the country will converge on Dec. 11-13 in Orlando, Fla. for the fifth annual National Marathon and Running Events Safety and Security Summit, hosted by The University of Southern Mississippi's National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS⁴).

These events draw large numbers of spectators, making safety and security a top priority for race organizers, public safety, and host communities. High profile events give rise to a host of potential risks and threats that must be addressed to ensure the safety and security of people, property, and infrastructure. 

“Event security planning is alchemy — a mix of art and science — that is crucial to a successful event,” said Linda Reid, Vice President of Security Operations at The Walt Disney World. She continued, “The process itself fosters communication between operational and security elements and also builds “muscle memory” and an ability to handle even the most serious incident.” Reid will be serving as a keynote speaker at the Summit and her topic will be on “Effective Planning: Key to a Successful Event.”

The target audience for the Summit includes event administrators and staff (representing marathons, half marathons, 10K, 5K, and endurance events), local/state law enforcement, government officials, emergency managers, fire/hazMat, emergency medical/health services, city planners, governing bodies, and sport commissions.

In addition to keynote speakers, panel presentations, and networking opportunities, attendees will participate in moderated discussions (round robin format) to enhance best practices for designated issues within the following areas:

            •           Event/Race Day

            •           Crowd Dynamics/Management

            •           Emergency Action Planning

            •           Risk and Threat Assessment

            •           Education, Training, and Awareness

            •           Command, Control, and Communications

Pricing for attendees to attend the Summit is $425 per person. Limited seating available. For more information, visit https://www.ncs4.com/marathon.