🕰️ Our History

Excelsior Running Club traces its roots back to January 1973, when four passionate runners—Bob Darling, Dan Best, Greg Moon, and Dean Williams—decided to create something of their own. Living together at 801 Excelsior Street in San Francisco, they shared a deep love for distance running and a desire to build a community around it. It was Dean’s idea to formalize the group, and he personally paid the $25 AAU club registration fee to make it official.

These former collegiate athletes quickly attracted other dedicated runners, forming a tight-knit team that was small in size but big in ambition. That same year, Excelsior Track Club made its mark by winning its first Pacific Association Championship. This was just the beginning of a long legacy of competitive excellence.

🏅 Growth Through the Decades

Throughout the 1970s and into the early 1980s, Excelsior began to establish itself as one of Northern California’s premier running clubs. The roster expanded, and with it came a surge of talent. This included the formation of a standout women’s team. Several of these athletes came close to qualifying for the inaugural U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials for Women in 1984, marking a historic moment for both the club and the sport.

Over the years, Excelsior has consistently competed at the highest levels of the Pacific Association and beyond. Our runners have earned countless accolades, and our club has become a respected name in the local and national running scenes.

🌟 A Legacy That Lives On

Now five decades strong, Excelsior Running Club remains deeply connected to its roots. While we have grown into a diverse and fitness-loving community, our commitment to excellence, camaraderie, and the spirit of running has not changed.

Today, our members enjoy a wide range of events, from competitive races to scenic long runs, trail adventures, and social meetups. When you join Excelsior, you are not just joining a club. You are becoming part of a legacy built on passion, perseverance, and shared miles.