For many years Jack Welch wrote for Running magazine and Track & Field News, chronicling the extraordinary developments of running during the 1970s, 80s and 90’s.

When Running Was Young and So Were We is based on his columns from this period and is a unique book – telling the story of how running became a way of life for millions.

·        It’s a book about excellence, inspiration and greatness. Not just what it takes to cross the finish line first, but also the lessons learned along the way.

·        It’s a sports book – offering an up-close and personal look at Olympic greats, big races and long runs.

·        It’s a training book – outlining many of the techniques and strategies that make you a winner, on and off the field of competition.

·        It’s a celebration of the human spirit - examining what happens when both great athletes and keen amateurs are driven to challenge their own personal limits.

What do greats like Alberto Salazar, Joan Benoit, Dick Beardsley, Mary Decker and Steve Prefontaine all have in common? Read their stories and be inspired!

Co-founder of Running magazine, former Director of Public Relations for Nike, Senior Editor of Road Racing For Track & Field News. Welch was also part-owner of the Oregon Runner specialty shop. 

Welch trained at altitude for years, logged many hundred mile weeks, even finished 93rd in the national marathon championships.  Has run, and become friends with, many of the great names of marathon running, including Alberto Salazar, Don Kardong, Joan Benoit Samuelson and Bill Rodgers . Having covered the sport for almost three decades, Welch was on the press truck, at the parties, behind the scenes, track-side for some of the best performances by some of the greatest runners in history.