Club History

In the winter of 1978, a small group of runners representing the towns of Andover, N Andover, Methuen, and Lawrence met to discuss the idea of starting a running club that could serve the needs of local runners.  Recognizing that running was booming, our founders decided that the club had to serve the needs of a broad span of abilities, so the mission statement was adopted - "The Merrimack Valley Striders is a running club whose mission is to encourage and enhance running at all levels".

Our first official gathering was on January 1, 1979.  Thirty folks joined us for a New Year's Day run, and thus began our +30 year history.  Read the full story by clicking here.