In the fall of 2002, four women from the Cedarburg area—Jennifer Sullivan, Lisa Vogt, Jackie White, and Gail Ostermann—successfully completed the Chicago Marathon. To celebrate their achievement, they gathered at Lisa’s house and reflected on their individual training experiences. All had trained alone, and the conversation soon turned to how helpful and motivating it would be to train with others of similar running abilities.
From that discussion, Run Ozaukee was born in the spring of 2003. It was envisioned as a running club for runners of all ages and abilities living in or near Ozaukee County. After a local newspaper published a feature about the club and its founders, a couple dozen people attended the club’s inaugural meeting at Galioto’s Restaurant.
In its early years, the club met on Saturday mornings and Tuesday evenings at Cedar Creek Park. Later, the meeting spot moved to the parking lot next to the Cedarburg Community Gym, across from the historic Interurban Trail Bridge. This location inspired the club’s familiar slogan: “Meet at the Bridge.”
Although the club originally had a formal structure with elected officers, it later evolved into a more informal organization. Members contributed Gatorade and water for rest stops along running routes. Runner Erik Halling introduced an email newsletter to keep members informed about routes and schedule changes. He also launched the club’s first website. Erik also designed a logo and made Run Ozaukee apparel available for purchase. Erik continues to organize the group runs and events over his near 20 year involvement with the club.
One of the club’s biggest cheerleaders, John Taylor, has organized Run Ozaukee’s involvement in the annual Lakefront Marathon since 2007. Club members have proudly staffed the Mile 20 water stop each year until the most recent course change. John and his wife, Linda, have also hosted the club’s annual Christmas party along with other club celebrations at their home since 2005.
Over the years, Run Ozaukee has supported runners as they progressed from 5Ks to half marathons, full marathons, and even ultra endurance events. Regardless of the distance or goal, every runner is met with friendship, encouragement, and—when needed—a good kick in the butt. After each run, members gather for coffee and conversation.
Lifelong friendships have been forged through Run Ozaukee. Best of all, the next generation is already continuing the tradition.