About the
Empire Runners Club
The Empire Runners Club was formed
in 1975, during the early stages of the "running boom". Over the years
the main focus of the club shifted from highly-competitive racing teams
to local race sponsorship to social training group. Currently the Empire
Runners Club encompasses all of those aspects of running with equal
emphasis. While the majority of the most talented runners in Sonoma
County are active club members, they make up only a small percentage of
our total membership. Many members are racers of all levels of ability
who take part in club-sponsored races, team competition and group
training sessions. Others prefer the solitude of running alone, take
part in the group sessions for social pleasures or simply wish to
maintain fitness and health. Beginners join to learn more about racing,
training and fitness and for the encouragement, support and motivation
that a group can provide. Whatever the goal, all members share a common
thread: the enjoyment of running.
The Empire Runners Club is affiliated with both Road Runners Club of
America (RRCA) and the USA Track & Field's Pacific Association
(PA/USATF). The Club elects volunteer officers yearly, holds club
meetings monthly, publishes a monthly newsletter, puts out a monthly
group training calendar, organizes and directs many local races and
track meets and competes as a team at many regional competitions.
