Award-Winning Documentary to Screen at 2026 Summit
The Gateway Outdoor Summit is proud to present a special screening of the award-winning documentary We ARE Distance Runners: Untold Stories of African American Athletes following the keynote presentation by filmmaker, author, Hall of Fame athlete, and St. Louis native Anthony Reed on Thursday, August 20.
Both the keynote and film screening are open to the public. Admission is free, but registration is encouraged at https://2026GatewayOutdoorSummit.eventbrite.com.
In his keynote, From Five to 500,000: Building a Movement Through Leadership, Strategy, and Community, Reed will share the remarkable story of how a small group of five runners grew into a national movement that has inspired and connected more than 500,000 African American distance runners across the country. Drawing from his experiences as a Fortune 500 technology executive, entrepreneur, and founder of the National Black Marathoners Association, Reed will explore the leadership principles, strategic thinking, and community-building practices that transformed an idea into a lasting movement. His presentation offers valuable insights for anyone working to create change, build organizations, strengthen communities, or expand access and opportunity.
Following the keynote, attendees will have the opportunity to view Reed’s acclaimed documentary, which challenges long-held stereotypes about African American athletes and celebrates the achievements of pioneering distance runners.
Released in 2023, We ARE Distance Runners profiles six extraordinary athletes whose accomplishments helped reshape perceptions of who belongs in distance running. Featuring marathon pioneers, national record holders, ultramarathoners, and community leaders — including the late Dick Gregory — the film explores stories of perseverance, resilience, and breaking barriers. The documentary was created to dispel the myth that African Americans are primarily sprinters and to highlight the significant contributions of Black athletes to the sport of distance running.
The film has earned widespread recognition on the festival circuit, winning 19 film festival awards across the United States, Canada, Sweden, and India, including honors for Best Documentary, Best Director, Best Sports Film, Most Inspirational Film, and Best Human Interest Story.
African American run clubs, runners, coaches, youth athletes, families, and community leaders are especially encouraged to attend. This is a unique opportunity to celebrate a rich and often overlooked history, connect with fellow runners, and inspire the next generation of athletes and outdoor leaders. Whether you’re a competitive runner, weekend jogger, outdoor enthusiast, educator, or advocate for community wellness, this special presentation promises to be one of the highlights of the Summit.
Keynote & Film Screening
Thursday, August 20, 2026
4:00-6:30 p.m.
The Key STL, 3225 Olive St., St Louis, MO 63103
