G.R.I.T. Is More Than a Finish Time. Who Inspires You?

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Every runner and walker has a journey. And every journey comes with its share of challenges, milestones, lessons, and moments that test us.

Some teammates are chasing a new personal best. Others are working toward a distance they’ve never attempted, rebuilding after a setback, or simply finding the determination to keep showing up.

What makes their journey inspiring isn’t necessarily what they accomplish. It’s how they approach it.

Nominations are now open for the 2026 RUNColumbus G.R.I.T. Award, a peer-selected honor celebrating four qualities that speak to the character of our teammates:

  • Growth: Challenging themselves, embracing new experiences, and striving to improve.
  • Resilience: Adapting to setbacks and finding ways to move forward.
  • Integrity: Demonstrating honesty, sportsmanship, and respect for others.
  • Tenacity: Staying committed, putting forth their best effort, and refusing to let challenges define their journey.

G.R.I.T. isn’t reserved for the podium finishers or those with extraordinary stories of overcoming adversity. It’s reflected in everyday decisions, consistent effort, and the character someone demonstrates along the way.

Think about the teammates you’ve raced alongside, encouraged, or watched grow throughout the season.

Whose journey has inspired you? Who demonstrates G.R.I.T. through both their actions and attitude?

Take a few minutes to recognize them. Your nomination could help shine a light on a teammate whose example has made a lasting impression.

Nominations close at midnight Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

G.R.I.T. Award Nomination

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Your Name*
Nominators must be part of the RUNColumbus Race Series.
How does your nominee demonstrate personal growth? Consider how they challenge themselves, set new goals, embrace new experiences, or learn and improve along their running or walking journey.
How does your nominee demonstrate resilience when facing setbacks, disappointments, or challenges? Share how they adapt, maintain perspective, and find ways to keep moving forward, even when things don’t go as planned.
How does your nominee demonstrate integrity through their actions? Consider their honesty, sportsmanship, respect for others, and commitment to doing what’s right, whether competing, supporting teammates, or representing RUNColumbus.
How does your nominee demonstrate tenacity in pursuing their goals? Consider their consistency, dedication, determination, and willingness to keep putting forth their best effort, even when progress is difficult or takes longer than expected.
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