Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Bell.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
On August 23rd 2024 we lost our CEO & Founder of Runtastic events, David Bell. He drowned while canyoneering in the Sierra Nevada’s. Totally true to David, he jumped in to rescue two dear friends and the three died together. He loved being outside, exploring, being uplifted by God’s handiwork, and giving other’s new experiences. He loved people and people loved him!
David created Runtastic Events to bring people together. He always dreamed of his races as not just a race but an event, an experience.
There are few events that capture the majesty of the human spirit more than a road race. For 20 plus years, Runtastic Events through our founder Davd Bell has provided thousands the opportunity to set a goal, to push mental and physical limits, to know the grind of daily preparation, to persevere with sheer grit as pain or doubt set in, to bond with other runners, to feel the energy of supporters lining the course, and to feel an incredible sense of accomplishment as the finish line is crossed.
David knew this power from a young age, initially running with his father and cheered on by his devoted mother. Running was always a defining part of his life and brought him great joy. In turn, he made it his life’s work to encourage others to experience that joy. He truly believed in people from the novice to the professional! He had the biggest smile as he rallied others to finish their race! He knew how to make a race a celebration through his artistic detailed medals, finish line activities, personal signage, creative touches, sponsors, and food.
A quote by Eric Liddle (Chariots of Fire) seems fitting of Dave. “I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I feel His pleasure.”
We invite all to be part of our Runtastic Family!
I lost my brother and my best friend, then again everyone considered him to be their best friend. One week after his funeral we put on the Nebo Race. The running community came together through service and volunteering to make sure the race was a success. As people were crossing the finish line with tears of joy and pain, and the feeling of accomplishment we decided at that moment that the races would go on. My family and especially my mom Carol Bell has helped David with races from the beginning, My Dad Carl Bell started The Harrington Memorial Mile back in 1994, now called the Run Of Remembrance. Some are giving me the title of CEO of Runtastic, but that title will always remain Davids as he leads and guides us from the other side.
-Mark Bell
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Runtastic has had to overcome canyons and mountains, literally. Many of the races Dino, Timp, Runtastic Heber, Haunted Half, and Nebo carve through canyons and mountains.
Sometimes these permits are difficult to obtain. There are road closures and construction.
Putting on these events requires a lot of volunteers, we could not do it without them.. We have become and invite other to be part of our tribe, community and the Runtastic family.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Owner at Runtastic Events
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Love, Sacrifice, Giving, Caring, Kindness & Empathy
Contact Info:
- Website: https://runtasticevents.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runtasticevents/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/runtasticevents
