Middle Distance Runner has long been one of DCist’s favorite local bands. They’ve been a Three Stars subject, an Unbuckled band, Unbuckled DJs, interview subjects countless times, recipe contributors and more to the site. And our main source of blog-space enjoyment always came from the wacky and wonderful Mr. Ian Glinka, the band’s bassist. Through a note on MySpace this weekend, he announced that he’s leaving the band.

We talked with Ian this afternoon about his decision to leave. He’s moving home to Pittsburgh, where he’s got a great opportunity with his current job. About his future music plans, he said, “It’s just a great situation ’cause this gives me the time, space, money to set up shop, record, and then at some point, go out and try it all over again, knowing what I know now. But being able to kind of play by my own rules.” And don’t worry; you’ll still see him in D.C. every now and again, as he’ll be back here for work once a month. The rest of the band is sad to see him go, but will still be bringing catchy indie rock to a club near you for the foreseeable future. The full formal (and pretty funny) announcements from both Ian and the band are after the jump.

Photo by Kyle Gustafson