Reston Runners: How It All Began
1974: Planting the Seed
The story of Reston Runners begins in 1974, when Rod Steele—then President of the DC Road Runners Club (DCRRC) and Reston resident—along with Joe Fleig, DCRRC Treasurer, and Dick Jamborsky, a champion Masters Marathoner, gathered to discuss a bold new idea: a youth running program based right in Reston. Their vision sowed the seeds for what would become a thriving running community.
1975: Growing Youth Participation
The following year, Joe, Dick, and Brian Forst rolled up their sleeves and began recruiting young runners. Their efforts sparked new enthusiasm and laid a strong foundation for youth involvement in the local running scene.
1978: Building Tradition and Momentum
By 1978, momentum was building. Joe and Paul Graf set out to train for fall marathons, initiating weekly Sunday runs of 10 miles in May and gradually increasing the distance by a mile every other week. As word spread, more runners joined, and a Saturday 5-mile run was added to the schedule. The group’s commitment to regular training fostered a sense of belonging and excitement, and soon, an official schedule was shared with the growing club.
1980: Reston Runners Takes Off
In 1980, Reston Runners was officially organized as a club and joined the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA). With Joe Fleig as the Founder and first President, serving from 1980 to 1985, the club entered a new era of growth. Under Joe’s leadership, Reston Runners flourished, becoming a beacon for fitness enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds in Reston and beyond.