AARC Provides Funding
The American Association of Running Clubs (AARC) and the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) announced their joint sponsorship of the 2003-2004 AARC/RRCA Roads Scholar Grants for developing elite distance running athletes. A minimum of four grants of $4,000 each will be provided to two female and two male athletes to help with travel and training expenses.

Freddi Carlip, RRCA President said, "This is an excellent way for these two premier organizations to work together to further the development of our future distance running athletes." Jeff Darman, the newly elected President of the AARC, added, "This cooperative effort serves several purposes. It assures that U.S. athletes in this important pre-Olympic period can get the help they need and allows the AARC and RRCA to work together for a program of mutual benefit."

The RRCA had been unable to fund the grants this year and the joint effort grew out of efforts of Board members of both organizations looking for areas of cooperation.

"While both the AARC and RRCA will be independent promoters of the sport now and in 2004, there is no reason to be working at cross purposes. RRCA and athletes had a need and we found the money - that's a happy ending," said Darman.

Carl Sniffen and Henley Gabeau will co-chair the selection committee. Additional information can be obtained from either Carl Sniffen, at csniffen@charter.net, or Henley Gabeau, at henleygabeau@aol.com. Also, applications may be downloaded from www.RRCA.org/programs/programs.html#ROADS. The program will be funded and administered by the AARC. The deadline for applications has been extended to August 1st and recipients will be chosen by September 1st.