The Washington Running Club (WRC) was formed when runner members of the Washington Sports Club split from that association in 1974. Apparently, the Washington Sports Club (WSC) was placing increased emphasis on other sports and the running members decided a club aimed solely on running was necessary.

The WRC, and its antecedent club, the WSC, has been known among runners as an elite distance running club in the Washington DC area. In the 1960’s, 70’s and early 80’s an elite racing team would travel to national and world cross country races (e.g., Scotland & Ireland) to compete (as well as to other racing events). And they did well at these events. For example, in 1967, the club won 7 national championships.

While a club steeped in competitive tradition, the WRC has runners of all abilities. Some are in their prime and running very fast times, some are maintaining their competitiveness and consistency, some are in the twilight of their careers, and lots of others fall somewhere in between. WRC members strive to partake in the running community and enjoy the sport to their own individual desires.

Presidents of the WRC harken back to the first days of the club. Elected by the membership, this person is responsible for calling meetings of officers and the membership, controlling the club's operations and financial dealings, appointing members to unelected positions, and being the general person in charge. Often the terms "prez," "head honcho," or "big enchilada" are bestowed upon the WRC president. They are used with the utmost respect, of course. Below is a listing of those brave enough to esteem to this highly regarded position in recent years.

The WRC recognizes the achievements of its members from time to time, both in club volunteerism and of course, in running as well. The Alfred tomFelde Trophy is a perpetual award that has been in the club since the 1960's. It was awarded annually in the past, took a hiatus of sorts, but is now again awarded on an annual basis. The recipient houses the trophy in good keeping until it is transferred.

The club also provides awards and member recognition at its annual year-end party/banquet, usually held in late January or early February. The running year is simply the calendar year. Criteria for receiving awards or recognition takes into account race performances and/or loyalty and activity in the club. We strive to recognize outstanding running accomplishments and good people too.

Perpetual trophy with inscription stating: "For the Most Active Long Distance Runner of the Year from the WSC"

First things first. Why does it say WSC, you may ask? If you red the bit of history above, you learned that the WSC, Washington Sports Club, was the precedent club to the WRC. Runners belonging to the WSC (which also included athletes in other sports) split to form the WRC in 1974 to gain a more direct focus on distance running. The trophy had its origins with the WSC, and so, the inscription on the trophy shall stand for perpetuity, or until someone changes it.

The trophy is named in the honor of Alfred tomFelde, who was an accomplished olympic-caliber race walker in the 1930's. He was also a dedicated member of the Washington Sports Club. The trophy was introduced in the early 1960's. Thus, this baby is more than 40 years old and deserves our utmost respect.

John O'Donnell hands off the large antique trophy to David Keating in 2002, while Jim Wadsworth cites Dave's many accomplishments. Dave showed leadership by volunteering many hours to develop membership, build club group run numbers, assist members with their running, create the club's website, and proffer creative and informative news of the club.

For the 2002 running year, the year-end party was held at the Capitol Lounge on Capitol Hill. The Alfred TomFelde trophy was awarded to Jim Wadsworth and runners of the year for men and women were recognized, as listed here.

In 2001, the WRC reconstituted a year-end party/banquet to socialize, graze, and to recognize achievements of members of the club. In 2001, the party was held at the Rhodeside Grill in Arlington. A number of awards were given to deserving members as well as the transfer of the Alfred tomFelde trophy from John O'Donnell to David Keating.