Salem, Oregon's
Running & Walking Club Site
Home of
Willamette Valley Road Runners (WVRR)
www.WVRoadrunners.org.

Guest Editorial by Alan Yankus

     I remember sitting in the Gallagher's living room for the first gathering of what would become the Willamette Valley Striders. I was member of that early, informal "board" that helped organize and launch the club. I also remember sitting with R.G., Clarence Pugh and others in the back room of the old Pheidippides store making decisions about races, banquets and awards. I was a board member and former president of that club

     When the Striders began, my impression was that this club existed as a runners' club. Race participation, training, social activities and flat-out running were the priorities. During the past 4 or 5 years, the Striders have included race sponsorship, more service to the running community and the community-at-large, support of youth programs, and walking as activities, also.

     Pheidippides' health has been restored during these same years and has continued its activities such as the Bush Park Runs, Dream of Roses, the annual Awards Banquet, and the group has become a more active running presence, again

     Why have two clubs? I've been in favor of a merger since it was first mentioned several years ago. The only thing that has prevented this from happening in the past is pride an elitist attitude in a few members of each group that masquerades as sentimentality, at times, and as aso called "logical" argument, at others.

     If we are here to run and serve, then we should merge for the sake of service. If we are here to run according to our own agenda, then we don't need a club - - we just need our Saturday morning or Thursday afternoon buddies. I think when we focus on the best way to meet the most needs, we will find the merger is a good thing. You may be surprised, also, when better activities, more friendships and a healthier running/walking community emerges as a result. I won't be surprised, though. I have liked the idea for a long time.

     (NOTE - If the name becomes an insurmountable issue, read again, the next-to-last paragraph on "pride")