Browning Ross: Father of American Distance Running

By: Jack Heath

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

Browning Ross was a High School National Champion Miler. He served in the Navy and then became an NCAA Champion at Villanova University. Browning was a 2 time Olympian, a gold medal winner at the Pan Am Games and an 8 time National Champion runner. Then his contributions to American distance running really started. He founded the Road Runners Club of America which led to the running boom in the 1970's. He started the first national running magazine, the Long Distance Log and he directed thousands of races. He also coached the US International Cross-Country team and was a successful high school and college coach. He overcame resistance in his attempt to change running for the better. His efforts provided more opportunities for all runners that are enjoyed today. He did it all with a humility and sense of humor that make for a fascinating true story.