The Secret Behind 50 Years of Striders Success
For 50 years, the Wyoming Valley Striders have been more than just a running club — they’ve been a vital thread in the fabric of NEPA’s running culture.
While runners, members, and supporters have kept the club strong, behind the scenes stands a dedicated board of directors — serving as race directors, volunteers, organizers, and stewards of the club’s legacy.
A Year of Celebration Continues
Throughout 2025, we’ve been honoring the Wyoming Valley Striders’ remarkable history — and now, the festivities culminate with our milestone 50th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, December 6 at King’s College in Wilkes-Barre.
The evening will be dedicated to honoring five decades of running and the people who’ve made it all possible. Be part of Striders history as we celebrate the moments, memories, and milestones that have brought us here. All are welcome!
What to Expect:
- A look back at our rich club history (plus some surprises!)
- Recognition of this year’s Vince Wojnar Triple Crown winners
- Raffles, prizes, and unexpected delights
- A sneak peek at what’s ahead for 2026
- Buffet dinner and open bar — reconnect with friends old and new
Reserve Your Spot
Tickets are $35 per person. Reservations are required, and the deadline to register is Saturday, November 22 at 5:30 pm.
Checks (payable to Wyoming Valley Striders) can be mailed to: 295 South Mountain Blvd, Mountain Top, PA 18707, or reservations made online by the deadline.
Meet Some of the Faces Behind the Wyoming Valley Striders
Running is not only a great way to improve your physical and mental well-being, but also a way to make friends and become part of something bigger. To spotlight the leadership behind the Striders, we asked a few members of our board of directors what the 50th Anniversary means to them — and what they believe has allowed the club to thrive for half a century.
Traci, Treasurer, shared:
“Reaching our 50-year milestone is such an accomplishment. I treasure the friendships I’ve made through running, and I’m proud to help keep the club financially strong and moving forward. Our longevity really comes down to those long-standing traditions — affordable races, a welcoming atmosphere, and a legacy that reflects how the club began. It’s all made possible by our dedicated board and members who keep it fun and support others in reaching their goals.”
Linda, Secretary, reflected:
“It’s amazing to think of how many people have discovered running or improved through what the Striders have offered. The club has endured because we’ve always honored those who came before us — especially the original board from 1975 who built such a solid foundation.”
Shelby shared:
“Fifty years means generations of runners and families connecting through the same shared passion. That’s something special. The Striders have lasted because of long-time members who value the club and traditions that keep people coming back — like our classic races and cross country meets.”
Jessica added:
“This milestone is a reminder of how running connects people of all ages and abilities. The Striders’ strength comes from our volunteers and our sense of community — that shared love of running brings people back year after year and inspires new runners to join.”
David expressed:
“I’m honored to help carry the Striders’ torch for even a few of the 50 years that make up this history. First, as a newbie runner I liked the challenge of doing their races. Then as I got better, I enjoyed the social aspect of meeting and getting to know other runners. That’s what keeps the Striders strong — people supporting one another and showing up, time after time.”
Chris, Vice President, summed it up best:
“The real strength and longevity of the Striders lies in the community — from the runners who participate, to the families and friends who support them, and especially the volunteers who make every event possible. That spirit of togetherness is what’s kept us running for 50 years.”
As a board, we’re humbled to be part of the legacy built by so many superb runners who came before us. We weren’t all runners during the early days of the Striders, but we look back in awe at the amazing performances of past racers. Times have changed, though. Running in the Valley today isn’t as much about elite performance as it once was — it’s more about beginners and casual runners, and about simply taking part in something healthy and positive.
Join the Legacy
Whether you’re a longtime Strider, loyal supporter, a past race participant, or new to the running community, this is your chance to be part of something special. Celebrate a half-century of memories — and help shape the next 50 years
Together, we’ll honor the legacy that began in 1975 and continues to inspire runners throughout the Wyoming Valley today.
