NYC Marathon Boss to Leave Over Allegations of Racism and Sexism

(Bloomberg) -- New York Road Runners Chief Executive Officer Michael Capiraso, head of the organization that oversees the New York City Marathon, is stepping down after facing allegations of racism and sexism.

Capiraso will depart on Dec. 31, and a search is underway for a new leader, New York Road Runners said in a statement Monday. Kerin Hempel was named interim CEO.

“Over the past several months, the board of directors has listened to the concerns raised and recommendations offered by the community NYRR serves, including its employees and members of the broader running community,” George Hirsch, chairman of the organization’s board, said in the statement. “In order to achieve our mission to help and inspire people through running, we will recruit new leadership to the organization.”

Earlier this year, a campaign called Rebuild NYRR called for Capiraso to be ousted, saying he fostered a toxic and discriminatory culture at the organization. Runner’s World also covered the allegations after speaking with current and former employees. Workers said that women and people of color at the association weren’t promoted as quickly, according to the publication.

The New York Road Runners, which began as a club in 1958, bills itself as the world’s top community running organization. The New York City Marathon, typically held in November, is the largest such event in the world.

©2020 Bloomberg L.P.