Renegade has created space for runners of all backgrounds and aims to uplift BIPOC and underrepresented voices in the running world. With Renegade Elite, we are prepared to continue this mission at the highest level.

The Renegade Elite team exists to expand opportunities for BIPOC athletes in the marathon world. Our mission is to prepare and support 12 BIPOC athletes (6 men and 6 women) to qualify for the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, while building pathways for them to become sponsored professional athletes.

You can find a link to the application at the bottom of this page. Please read through the details and requirements before applying.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Athletes selected for this program will receive comprehensive support designed to help them train, compete, and take the next step into the professional level.

Coaching & Development

Renegade Elite athletes will be coached by Nell Rojas tailored to long-term development and competing at the highest level.

About Nell Rojas:

  • 2021 10-mile National Champion, 
  • Top 10 Olympic Marathon Trials,
  • 2x top American at Boston,
  • Top 10 NYC Marathon,
  • Grandma's Marathon winner,
  • 20 years coaching experience.

Race Support

Athletes will receive assistance with race entries, acceptance into competitive fields, and all race-related expenses covered, including room, board, and travel.

Camps & Training Environment

Athletes will attend two training camps per year focused on team building, motivation, and teaching the skills, habits, and mindset needed to thrive as a professional athlete. Support for recovery and nutrition will be provided.

Equipment & Gear

On will support Renegade Elite athletes with run gear for their full 2-year program. This includes On footwear and apparel, to reflect our shared passion for movement and performance running.

Team & Community

Athletes will be part of a team culture and community built to inspire, connect, and push athletes toward their goals. They will also receive access to a team app for communication, accountability, and shared support.

Fuel & Hydration

Precision Fuel & Hydration are proud to support the Renegade Elite program as they aim to realize their Olympic dreams. It aligns perfectly with their mission to ensure every athlete has access to the information and tools they need to personalize their approach to fueling and hydration. Getting your race nutrition right is critical if you want to run an Olympic Qualifying time and Precision is excited to help the team do just that.

WHO SHOULD APPLY 

The Renegade Elite application is open to runners who are ready to fully commit to a two-year, high-performance development pathway leading into the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, powered by On. This program is selective by design: applicants must meet or exceed the established performance standards and demonstrate the discipline, accountability, and intention required to show up consistently over the full duration of the project.

To be considered, athletes must commit to the complete two-year program and meet or be under the following performance standards:

Women: 2:45 marathon or 1:17 half marathon
Men: 2:25 marathon or 1:08 half marathon

While Renegade Elite exists to support athletes pursuing Olympic-level performance, we believe the strongest teams comprise athletes who are strong in body and in character. This program seeks athletes who embody—or are actively striving to embody—Renegade’s core tenets on and off the course: individuals who lead with integrity, commit to personal and collective growth, and understand that their pursuit of excellence can inspire something far greater than themselves.

Please read these program requirements before applying. 

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

To be considered for this 2-Year Elite Coaching Program, athletes must meet the following requirements:

PRs

  • Women: 2:45 full, 1:18 half 
  • Men: 2:22 full, 1:06 half 

Training & Racing

  • Proven ability to consistently follow a structured training plan.
  • Commitment to attending team training camp and monthly webinars.
  • Maintains regular communication with Nell for feedback, adjustments, and accountability.
  • Available to travel and compete in:
    • 2 marathons per year
    • 2 half marathons per year
    • 3 shorter races (5K–10K) per year

Strength & Recovery

  • Commits to a structured strength training program to support performance and injury prevention.
  • Prioritizes recovery protocols including sleep, nutrition, mobility, and bodywork.

Lifestyle & Professionalism

  • Already living the lifestyle of an endurance athlete: consistent training, healthy routines, and prioritization of sport.
  • Demonstrates professionalism on and off the course; represents the program with integrity and positivity.
  • Open to feedback, coaching, and growth with a team-first mindset.

Health & Preparedness

  • Proactive in managing and communicating about injuries or health issues.

Commitment & Mindset

  • Willing to commit to the full 2-year program, understanding that progress is long-term and not always linear.
  • Maintains a growth-oriented mindset. Embraces challenges, setbacks, and feedback as part of the process.
  • Self-motivated and accountable between check-ins.

APPLY TO RENEGADE ELITE