TrailCon launch a runaway success

The trail running community experienced a new chapter with the launch of TrailCon forum on 26 June in the United States. There was strong momentum coming out of this ‘taster’ event, as the organisers race on towards for their first full-blown event in June 2025. Amid the rapid growth and global reach of trail running, organisers introduced an event that celebrated the spirit of unity, innovation, and collective progress within the sport. TrailCon 2024 provided a forum where passionate trail enthusiasts, senior industry executives, and visionary leaders converged for dialogue and inspiration. Set against the stunning backdrop of Palisades, California, ‘A Taste of TrailCon’ kicked off energetic panel discussions featuring trail running royalty like Catherine Poletti, Craig Thornley, Billy Yang, Sally McRae and Wes Allan, among a star-studded cast of 20 speakers. The programme covered four panels – Events, Media, Brand & Athlete, and Retail and the event concluded with a vibrant networking happy hour, drawing 379 registered attendees. The main event is now coming down the trail 24-25 June 2025, when TrailCon returns to Palisades. Nestled between the iconic Broken Arrow Skyrace and Western States 100, TrailCon looks to harness the energy of these premier races to create a transformative experience. Dylan Bowman, co-founder of TrailCon, said: “We were delighted by the strong response from the community for the first trail running event of its type in North America. On behalf of Brendan Madigan, Doug Emslie, and myself, I would like to wholeheartedly thank all our speakers and attendees for their support in launching TrailCon, a much-needed platform for our sport, and look forward to welcoming them back to TrailCon 2025.” David Callahan of UltraSignUp shared his enthusiasm: “TrailCon has a bright future, and I’m excited to see what next year brings. I’m really excited to watch the maturing process of this industry into its next phase. I believe there are bright and innovative things on the horizon for us all.” TrailCon co-founder Doug Emslie, a well known figure for years on the international exhibition circuit, told CMW that the 380 registered attendees had surpassed his estimated attendance of 200 people. Considering the taster event was launched in a short time frame, organisers have every right to be proud of the start and have a full 12 months cycle now to plan the full-on TrailCon for 2025. “TrailCon is a real passion event for the three founders – Dylan Bowman, Brendan Madigan and myself – coming at a time when the industry has seen rapid growth and also now experiencing some decisions and challenges as a result. TrailCon will provide the platform for open and collaborative dialogue to move trail running to the next level,” Emslie told CMW. For further information about TrailCon contact: demslie777@gmail.com