The first ever mention of the Runaround was in a small ad in the Currents newsletter in 1978.
The first mascot was not a goat or turkey, but a frog in running shoes carrying a torch. Lab employees were encouraged to register via a paper form and were promised refreshments and prizes.
An estimated 500 people participated in that first Runaround on August 4, 1978, which included at least one 2-year-old in a stroller who reportedly kept chanting, “Faster! Faster!” to his father. There was a pace car, which was passed by the fastest runners, relay teams, bicycle floats, and at least one brave researcher on roller skates.
The event’s organizer, Harvey Levy, was unable to participate due to a back injury, but was well pleased with the turnout.
Share your own Runaround memories in the comments below!
