Spirit of Rob Bell Award

Submit your vote HERE.

In August 2000, Rob Bell, an avid and middle-of-the-pack runner in Southern Arizona, passed away during a workout. Rob was a kind and soft-spoken man who loved to run and to race. He was always aware of the successes of other runners and celebrated that alongside them. In his memory, an award was created with the support of two individuals who embody this same spirit of camaraderie, passion for the sport and kindness to others.

Over the years, there have been a growing number of nominations. Because of this, SAR has updated and expanded the award to recognize a nominee chosen by the SAR board and a nominee that is chosen by the southern Arizona running and walking community. We ask that all those interested in nominating someone please complete the form.

Submitting Nominations

Nominations for the Spirit of Rob Bell Award are being accepted now! Nominations should include the following information: the name of the person being nominated, a description of how this person embodies the spirit of Rob Bell, and the name of the person submitting the nomination.

The SAR board will review the nominations, tally up the vote for the community choice winner, vote on a SAR board winner, and then announce both winners at the annual SAR members celebration in January!

Award winners will receive the following:

Free entries to all SAR races for one year;
Free SAR membership for one year;
A commemorative plaque and prizes totaling approximately $150 in retail value

Previous Winners

2019: Steve Sheldon, Denise King & Steve King
2018: Noemi Mills & Sharon Silvas
2017: Jeri Baker & Geoff Schmidt
2016: Matt Frantz & Marti Ackerman
2015: Anna Carr & Shokofeh Motlagh
2014: Leo Richard
2013: Michelle Hawk
2012: Kamran Talattof
2011: Benito Gonzalez

2010: Craig Dabler
2009: Jolene Jones
2008: Gerry and Sully Sullivan
2007: Elisa Kinder
2006: Michele and Dave Hill
2005: Dorothy Wilhelmson
2004: Rick Fenno
2003: Jennifer Argraves
2002: William Chapdelain
2001: Connie Lopez