Atlanta Running Legend Jeff Galloway Dies at 80

Galloway, a 1972 Olympian, was a running mentor to thousands through his training programs and retail store.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Jeff Galloway, an Atlantan who competed for the U.S. Olympic track team in the 10,000 meters at the 1972 Summer Games, passed away this week at the age of 80. Galloway became a running mentor for thousands, developing training programs and operating a running retail store in Atlanta for decades.

Why it matters

Galloway was a beloved figure in the Atlanta running community, inspiring countless runners through his coaching, training programs, and retail store. His passing marks the end of an era for running in the city.

The details

Galloway competed in the 1972 Olympics, where he could have qualified in both the 10,000 meters and the marathon, but allowed a friend and training partner to finish ahead of him in the marathon trials so they both could make the team. After his Olympic career, Galloway became a running coach and author, developing the "Galloway Run-Walk-Run" training method that helped make running more accessible. He operated a running retail store in Atlanta for over 20 years.

  • Jeff Galloway passed away this week at the age of 80.
  • Galloway competed in the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany.

The players

Jeff Galloway

A member of the 1972 U.S. Olympic track team who became a renowned running coach, author, and retailer in Atlanta.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“A beautiful aspect of Jeff Galloway's life is this.”

— Ken Sugiura, Author (ajc.com)

The takeaway

Jeff Galloway's legacy as a running pioneer and mentor will continue to inspire the Atlanta running community for years to come, even as the sport loses one of its most influential and beloved figures.