Skip to main content
SF FrontRunners
HomeHistory

San Francisco FrontRunners

Our history runs deep.

From a half-mile jogging class in Golden Gate Park to an enduring LGBTQ+ running and walking community, our story spans more than five decades.

Early members of the group circa 1974
Early days of the club, circa 1974. Select the photo to view it at full size.
1974First Sunday run
40Charter members in 1979
400Runners at the first Gay Run
50+Years of community

Explore the archive

One history, two chapters

The original page has been organized into a founding narrative and a collection of traditions and landmarks, making each part easier to read and revisit.

1973 to 1980

How It All Began

Bud Budlong’s account of Lavender U. Joggers, the first Sunday runs, the adoption of the FrontRunners name and the first Gay Run.

Read the founding story → 1998 to today

Traditions & Landmarks

Explore the Golden Gate Park water fountain, Easter Bonnet Run, Little Black Dress Run and Stow Lake bronze plaque.

Explore club traditions →

At a glance

Milestones along the route

  1. 1973Lavender U. lists an introduction to jogging class.
  2. 1974The first run begins near the south windmill in Golden Gate Park.
  3. 1978The group reorganizes with members, bylaws and elected officers.
  4. 1980The first Gay Run draws approximately 400 participants.
  5. 1998A club water fountain is installed in Golden Gate Park.
  6. 1999The Little Black Dress Run tradition begins.
  7. 2020A commemorative bronze plaque is installed at Stow Lake.
  8. TodayThe club continues to run, walk, volunteer and build community.

The people who carried the club forward

Explore San Francisco FrontRunners leadership by year and decade.

View the Hall of Fame