Spirit of Rob Bell Award
Funding Amount
Varies
Deadline
Rolling / Open
Grant Type
foundation
Overview
Spirit of Rob Bell Award
Organization: Southern Arizona Roadrunners
Geographic Scope: Southern Arizona
Background: In August 2000, Rob Bell, an avid and middle-of-the-pack runner in Southern Arizona, passed away during a workout. Rob was a kind and soft-spoken man who loved to run and to race. He was always aware of the successes of other runners and celebrated that alongside them. In his memory, an award was created with the support of two individuals who embody this same spirit of camaraderie, passion for the sport and kindness to others.
Over the years, there has been a growing number of nominations. Because of this, SAR has updated and expanded the award to recognize a nominee chosen by the SAR board and a nominee chosen by the Southern Arizona running and walking community.
- Free entries to all SAR races for one year
- Free SAR membership for one year
- A commemorative plaque and prizes totaling approximately $150 in retail value
Award Recipients
Winners receive the following:- Two winners selected annually: one chosen by SAR Board (Board Choice Winner) and one chosen by community voting (Community Choice Winner)
- Nominations open later in the year
- Winners announced at SAR RANnual Celebration in January
Selection Process
- Open to members of the Southern Arizona running and walking community
- Nominee should embody the spirit of Rob Bell: camaraderie, passion for the sport, and kindness to others
Eligibility
- 2025: Bob Arendt and Steve Taggart
- 2024: Anne Hoff and Emily Truong
- 2023: Donna McMordie and Brandy Dujmic
- 2022: Autumn Ball and Kelly Thrush
Recent Winners
How to Apply
How to Submit a Nomination
Nomination Period: Opens later in 2026; voting closes before January 2027
Required Nomination Information:
1. Name of person being nominated
2. Description of how this person embodies the spirit of Rob Bell
3. Name and email of the person submitting the nomination
Selection and Voting Process:
1. Nomination period opens (timing announced by SAR)
2. Community voting opportunity follows nomination period
3. SAR Board reviews all nominations
4. Community votes tallied to select Community Choice Winner
5. SAR Board selects Board Choice Winner
6. Winners announced at SAR RANnual Celebration in January 2027
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