This desire led to regular runs with friends. Quickly friends invited other friends and before they knew it, Joni and Frank were surrounded by others on their weekend runs. In the matter of just a few months, they recognized the need and formed the Amazing Feet Running Club with the motto of “get the feet on the street.” 

They did just that. Within a few short years, the club had a newsletter mailing list of more than 1,500. 

An annual 10k race was started in New Providence and one year the club had roughly 150 members register for the New York City marathon. The club's growth was fueled by the philosophy of welcoming runners fast and slow and of all ages.  

The club met weekly for a Sunday run in Loantaka Park on South Street in Morristown. While the weekly Loantaka club run is now Saturday, they started a tradition that remains nearly three decades later. They also conducted monthly meetings held at the New Providence Library that included talks. Regular speakers included coaches, running experts, and authors such as James Fix and best-selling author and running legend George Sheehan. 

In 1981, Joan and Frank moved out of the area, and handed off the main club leadership duties to new president Celeste Fondaco. Celeste was a passionate advocate for the club and was known for being an enthusiastic recruiter for the club. Any time she saw a runner, she would encourage them to join the weekend club runs.  

Celeste led the club for many years taking over as the leader of the AFRC pack. Following Celeste’s leadership, AFRC had many dedicated presidents who helped shape the club into what it is today.