The Professional Standard in Race Director Education
The first national certification program for endurance event professionals. Comprehensive curriculum, industry-recognized credentials, and practical tools to elevate your events.
Explore 2026 Programs11 Certification Levels
From foundational knowledge to advanced mastery, choose the certification path that matches your experience and goals.
Level I
Foundation principles for new race directors
Level II
Intermediate event management skills
Level III
Advanced operations and logistics
Level IV
Expert-level event production
Level V
Master certification for industry leaders
Associate
Entry point for aspiring professionals
Academy
Youth leadership program (ages 15-18)
Cross Country
Specialized scholastic athletics certification
Duathlon I
Multi-sport event fundamentals (run-bike-run)
Duathlon II
Advanced multi-sport event management
Duathlon Combo
Complete Duathlon certification (I + II)
Become a Certified Volunteer Director
Not a full certification—but a professional certificate recognizing your expertise in volunteer management. Perfect for those who lead race-day volunteer teams and want formal recognition of their skills.
Learn About the CVD Certificate →Why Race Director University?
The industry's most comprehensive professional development program for endurance event managers.
Industry-Recognized Credentials
RDU certification signals professional competence to sponsors, municipalities, and participants. Stand out in a crowded field with credentials that matter.
Practical, Real-World Curriculum
Developed by a 30+ year industry veteran, our courses address the actual challenges you face—from permit negotiations to emergency protocols.
Comprehensive Assessment
900+ questions across all certification levels ensure mastery, not just completion. Prove your knowledge with rigorous, meaningful evaluation.
Legal & Risk Management Focus
Learn from real case studies including the Portland Marathon, Chicago 2007, and Boston Marathon. Protect yourself and your events.
Flexible Online Learning
Study at your own pace with our comprehensive online curriculum. Access materials anytime, anywhere—designed for busy event professionals.
Professional Community
Join a network of certified race directors committed to excellence. Share knowledge, best practices, and industry connections.
Professional Resources
Tools, templates, and guides to elevate your event operations—available in the RDU Store.
Sponsorship Toolkit
200 sponsors with direct emails, proposal templates, pricing calculator, and more. Everything you need to build a professional sponsorship program.
RDU Legal Playbook
Comprehensive legal guidance including case studies, liability frameworks, and risk management protocols.
Assessment Quizzes
Test your knowledge before certification. Race Director and Cross Country assessments available.
Free Newsletter
Industry insights, best practices, and RDU updates delivered to your inbox. Stay current with the profession.
The RDU Standard
Founded in 2012 by Gregory J. Evans—a 30+ year veteran of endurance event management and former Chairman of Long Distance Running for USATF Illinois Association (1989-2022)—Race Director University established the first national certification program for race directors.
Start Your Certification Journey
Join the professionals who have elevated their careers and events through RDU certification.