Posted: June 5, 2006

Running: Grandma's Marathon - North Shore Striders Honored for Starting It All

Duluth, Minn.: Thirty-years ago a Duluth running club called the North Shore Striders (NSS) decided to host an official marathon along their favorite training route from Two Harbors, Minn. to Duluth. What began as a small road race consisting of 150 people has grown to be the 13th largest marathon in the nation. "Grandma's Marathon wouldn't exist today if it weren't for the vision of the North Shore Striders," says Scott Keenan, who was the president of the NSS when the marathon started in 1977 and is the current executive director of the race.

To honor the North Shore Striders for their role in creating one of the nation's premiere marathons, Grandma's Marathon is hosting the first-ever NSS reunion during the 30th anniversary celebration. Nearly 120 past members of the now disbanded club are expected to attend the reunion festivities that begin with a social event from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, June 16 in the tents outside of Grandma's Saloon and Grill in Canal Park. The club will also be inducted into the Grandma's Marathon Hall of Fame during an awards ceremony under the Big Top Tent at 3:30 p.m. on June 17.

The North Shore Striders started in 1968 as a competitive track and field club that included 1976, 10,000-meter Olympian, Garry Bjorklund. In 1972 the Striders became an almost exclusive road-racing and cross-country running club that organized 15 to 20 races per year. "The goal of the NSS was to host events, run them and maybe have a few beers after the races. It was a fun social organization," says Keenan. Membership grew to 120 paid members at its peak in 1978. The annual dues were $5.00 a year.

For more information about the North Shore Striders reunion contact Grandma's Marathon headquarters at (218) 727-0947.

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