The Legacy of Johnson & Wales AC and Colonel John McNulty

In the 1970s and 1980s Johnson & Wales AC (JWAC) was the dominant road running club in Rhode Island.  Prior to becoming a four year college (now a university) JWAC had one of the top Jr. College teams in the country featuring standouts Hollie Walton, Roland Davide, Bob Hodge and Vin Fleming to name a few.  The then 4 year College team transitioned to an all comers club in the late 1970's during the height of the running boom.  Bobby Doyle and Hollie Walton, fresh from the collegiate ranks at UTEP, led the charge and soon other top runners followed including Tom Grundy, Mark Skinkle, John Treacy, Mick O'shea, Mick Byrne, Ray Treacy, Doctor Paul Thompson, Tom and Bobby Ratcliffe and many other top runners from RI.  At the height of its dominance the club had over 70 plus members of various skill levels including the Elite runners.  This also included several team titles over the years around the country at almost every distance including a 50k in Brattleboro Vt in 1978 and third in the TAC National XC meet held in Franklin Park in 1984.

The driving force behind the club was the founder and original coach Colonel John McNulty.  His distinguished military career included the Bronze Star and three Army Commendation Medals for Meritorious Service, and the Combat Infantry Badge.  The Colonel was also an accomplished marathoner long before it became a sport for the masses. As a boy in Baltimore he won his division in several road races at various distances.  In this episode we discuss the legacy of the Colonel and JWAC with his son Chief Patrick McNulty.  We will also discuss Pat’s own experiences as a runner, accomplished surfer and career in law enforcement.