Laura McIntyre brings decades of high-level event experience — from the 1996 Atlanta Olympics to Super Bowl logistics and disaster relief — back home to Maine, where she’s building something special with the Maine Endurance Sports Alliance (MESA).
From Olympic Logistics to Maine Trails
Laura’s background includes major events like the Atlanta Olympics, Super Bowl, Special Olympics, and disaster relief efforts. That expertise now powers inclusive races across Maine through MESA — events with no time limits where every runner, from first-timers to veterans, gets to finish and feel celebrated.
Building a Nonprofit Legacy
After starting Lifestyle Sports Global, Laura transitioned to the nonprofit Maine Endurance Sports Alliance to create lasting community impact, attract strong board members, mentor future leaders, and better support local causes like the United Way and Maine Veterans Project.
The Reality of Race Production
Producing quality events involves massive behind-the-scenes work: permits, insurance, medical support, volunteers, sponsorships, and turning a single marathon into a full festival of distances. MESA delivers Boston-qualifier courses, personal attention to every finisher (including whoopie pies for the last runners), and real economic boosts for host communities.
Community & Inclusivity at the Core
MESA events welcome everyone — military veterans carrying rucks, multi-generational families, and runners of all abilities. The focus on stories, emotional finishes, and creating a true “Maine experience” at the finish line (local foods, photos, celebration) builds powerful loyalty and tourism.
Economic Impact & Future Vision
These races bring visitors to central and northern Maine towns that don’t always see coastal tourism. Laura and her team are expanding into ultramarathons, backyard ultras, wheelchair games, and more regions across the state while prioritizing succession and mentoring the next generation of event leaders.
Local Resource
Maine Endurance Sports Alliance (MESA)
Dedicated to inclusive endurance events, community building, and making Maine a destination for runners of all abilities.
Website: mesa-maine.org
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