Running with the Masses: A History of the Clydesdale Movement

The historical development of weight-based divisions in distance running is often referred to as the Clydesdale movement. Articles from the mainstream running media, as well as interviews and archival materials from key figures in the Clydesdale movement, document the development of weight divisions in distance running. A brief history of distance running in the United States provides context for the Clydesdale movement, including the early days of weight divisions promoted by Joe Law of Baltimore, followed by the creation of other East Coast groups and the concurrent development of a strong, independent Clydesdale movement in Chicago. The challenges encountered by the leaders of the Clydesdale movement, including the struggle for acceptance in mainstream races and the conflict between regional groups aiming for national dominance, are also explored.