About DC Front Runners
DC Front Runners is a running, walking and social club for gay people and friends in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Membership is open to all people regardless of race, pace, age, gender, sexual orientation, or athletic ability. Visitors to the DC area are welcome to join our runs or walks.
Founded in 1981, our club has over 300 active members. DC Front Runners belongs to a network of Front Runner clubs that extends around the world. There are about 100 Front Runner chapters, representing 36 States and 10 countries. Visit the International Front Runners web site for more information.
Through our weekly runs and social events, our club offers opportunities for fun, fitness and socializing. For those interested in more competitive road-racing and walking, the club offers opportunities through the DC Front Runners Race Circuit.
What to Expect at a Club Run or Walk
The club maintains a regular schedule of non-competitive runs and walks. These runs and walks are well organized in time and place, but informal - you choose your distance and set your pace. The group is very diverse in both speed and intensity, and we encourage and support all who participate.
You do not have to be a member to participate in our runs or walks. If you've never run or walked with us before, a coordinator will greet you, introduce you to the other members and help you find someone who runs or walks at your pace and distance.
Your Goals are Our Limits
Many who are considering DC Front Runners are concerned with the levels of fitness, skill, and commitment that are needed to become a member. We welcome all runners and walkers of all ages, paces and athletic abilities. There are no minimum requirements and DCFR allows each member to determine his or her own level of involvement. You'll meet people with paces ranging from walking to sub-six minute miles. We encourage you to set your own goals.
All of our members run and walk for fitness. Many also compete in road races locally, and some compete nationally and internationally. The club sponsors a Race Circuit for member that are interested in competition. If you are interested in training for road racing, especially marathons, the Race Directors will assist you with advice and training schedules. Occasionally, the club will sponsor a training program to help runners prepare for their first race.
Building More Than Mileage
The club sponsors many social events, which allow the members to build upon their friendships. After our Tuesday and Saturday run/walk the group will gather for a bite to eat and some conversation (so bring a few bucks to buy a sandwich, or more). The club also hosts fun runs on holidays and during Pride weekend, and frequently organizes informal events afterwards.
Regular events include our monthly happy hours, annual anniversary and holiday parties, DC Capital Pride activities, and Spring Fling, an entire weekend of running and social events. There are occasional special women's run/walk and pot luck brunches.
With close to 300 members, you will find many opportunities to make new friends and join smaller groups for dinner, happy hour, or other activities. Read about some of our members in our Member Profiles.
Welcome to
DC Front Runners!
Regardless of your fitness level or running experience, we invite you to give us a try. For over 25 years, DC Front Runners has provided the Washington DC area’s GLBT running and walking communities with extraordinary, year-round outdoor activities and social gatherings. It’s a great way to get fit and we’re sure that you’ll fit right in!
DCFR Coordinator
In 2006, DC Front Runners celebrated its 25th Anniversary. Take a look back at our past in this photo and video retrospective.
Our History | Members Profiles | Brochure | Apparel | Board | Join | Calendar
Read about our featured Front Runners here.
Click HERE to meet our club officers. If you plan to attend one of our walks or runs, please feel free to approach any of our Board members and they’ll do their best to make you feel welcome!
Why do people join DC Front Runners? Read about some of our new members’ experiences here!
