History Highlights

• Founded in early 1992 by Fernando De Leon and James Brown.

• Grew from a small group of 6 to over 100 members, including runners and walkers.

• Introduced fun and fundraising events, like the celebrated Hot Diggity Dog Day.

• Contributed to community causes, such as the Matthew Shepard Fund.

• Transitioned from an informal group to a more structured organization with elected officers and by-laws.

Our Story

Once upon a time in 1992, Fernando De Leon, a running enthusiast with a vision, and James Brown (no, not that James Brown), a Sacramento run-lover, bumped into each other and thought, "Why not start a running group?" With a little help from the Sacramento News and Review's free ads, they gathered a merry band of six at the crack of dawn (well, 9:00 AM) at the Guy West Bridge.

What started with a handful of early birds quickly ballooned into a vibrant community of over 100 members. From Saturday mornings to Monday and Wednesday evenings, the streets of Sacramento became a runway for fitness and friendship.

In the beginning, club life was simple. Plans were hatched over post-run brunches, newsletters were a covert operation of borrowed office supplies, and fundraising was as grassroots as it gets—thanks to generous meal tips and cozy gatherings at members' homes.

As the group swelled, so did its structure. Roles like President, Newsletter Editor, and Membership Recruitment were filled by those first few faces, wearing multiple hats and juggling tasks. Elections became a one-horse race, with most officers stepping up unopposed.

Communication evolved from word-of-mouth to an ingenious use of voicemail, keeping everyone in the loop. Local newspapers became the new frontier for spreading the word, ensuring our running group kept ticking like a Timex watch through the highs and lows.

FrontRunners Sacramento isn't just about running; it's a buffet of activities—walking, biking, hiking, you name it. It's a community that thrives on diversity and inclusion, where socializing is as important as the sport itself. From game nights and picnics to charitable runs and out-of-town meetups, there's never a dull moment.

Looking ahead, the journey from a tiara-guarding leadership to a more conventional presidency reflects our evolution. With by-laws in place and a shift to a dues-paying model, the future is bright for sponsoring fun runs and supporting local charities. Yet, the heart and soul of FrontRunners Sacramento remain its members—dedicated to fostering an environment of pride, openness, achievement, and deep-seated friendship.

In a nutshell, FrontRunners Sacramento is more than a running club; it's a family. A place where you're not just running alongside others but where you're seen, valued, and part of something truly special.