Early Birds Regroup for Reunion Run!

Anyone who arrives at MAC in the morning hours will likely see any number of running and walking groups setting out from, or returning to, the club. The original run group came together back in 1969, running at Duniway Park. The group expanded significantly over the years, with groups running through Washington Park, Hill Villa, Pittock Mansion, and the waterfront. The rise in popularity of the marathon in the 1990s drew a significant number of new members, both men and women, to the group.

While the original Early Bird group runners are no longer running, they can be found walking, cycling, or doing other activities. New members have joined the group over the years, some later leaving for other activities, lifestyles, and locales. During COVID, when the clubhouse was closed, several small groups continued to meet outside the club for a run, and then headed off to shower at work or home.

More than 120 runners have been part of this group over the years. Member Bill Zander shared that this group has provided amazing support throughout the years for one another during all the ups and downs of family, financial, and health issues. There are a number of similar groups within the Early Bird community, for which we are all extremely grateful, but this one really stands out.

To celebrate being able to gather post-COVID, 29 runners joined together at 5:15 a.m. on April 5 for an unofficial Reunion Run. From the archives, a photo from the 1980s winter holidays shows another grouping of dedicated Early Bird runners. Smiles abound!

Remember: If you are working out at MAC in the early morning, you are an Early Bird, too! Join for your next activity!

— The Early Birds