History

The Panther Pacers running club was formed in 1996 by freshmen students, Shaun Enderton '99 and James Barnes '00. Enderton and Barnes created the club out of a shared desire to continue their training habits from high school cross country. They opted to form a community of runners in which others might enjoy this mutual passion and encourage the maintenance of an active lifestyle during college. Enderton's original club name, “Panther Pace Setters,” was modified to “Panther Pacers” at the first club meeting ten years ago. Don Williams, the former University Health Services Administrator, became the club's advisor, eager to support the club's mission, which is to promote the sport of running, and act as a resource for its members. Don left UNI last year and was replaced by Eugene Wallingford. The number of club members has fluctuated from as few as two to as many as forty over the years, and the group continues to seek membership from students who are interested in running and staying fit.