Running Insight 7.2.18 by Running Insight

THE NEWSMAGAZINE FOR RUNNING SPECIALTY RETAILERS / RUNNINGINSIGHT.COM

A DIVERSIFIED COMMUNICATIONS PUBLICATION

PRESENTING SPONSORS

PLUS... A REPORT FROM THE FLEET FEET ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN MINNEAPOLIS.

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RUNNING INSIGHT

Rush Running of Arkansas Named 2018 Store of the Year Run Specialty shop honored during 50 Best Running Stores in America event last week in Minneapolis.

“We honored, humbled and thrilled all at the same time.” MIKE RUSH, OWNER, RUSH RUNNING

ush Run n i ng, based i n Bentonville, AR, has been named the 2018 Store of the Yea r by Running Insight. The presentation took place last week at the Mill City Museum in Minneapolis during the 50 Best Running Stores in America event. Rush was selected out of four finalists, which included Run For Your Life in Charlotte; Fitniche in Florida and Fleet Feet Spokane. “There are a lot of owners in this room

that I really look up to, so that award is very special to me,” said Mike Rush, upon accepting the award. “We’re honored, humbled and thrilled all at the same time.” Rush thanked his wife and business partner, Alison, who he said works her “day job as a systems analyst at a Fortune 500 company and then comes to help out with our accounting.” Rush also credited his manager and best friend Drew Conner, who he “Facetimed” with during his acceptance speech.

RUNNING INSIGHT ® is a registered trademark of Diversified Communications. © 2018 all rights reserved. Running Insight is published twice each month, is edited for owners and top executives at running specialty stores and available only via email.The opinions by authors and contributors to Running Insight are not necessarily those of the editors or publishers. Articles appearing in Running Insight may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express permission of the publisher. Divesified Communications, 121 Free St, Portland, ME 04101; (207) 842-5500.

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Advertise Editorial

Both Mike and Alison Rush say they have been running since middle school. They continued their running at University of Arkansas, where Alison qualified for the Olympic Trials in the 10K. The Rushes opened their first store 10 years ago and now have locations in Bentonville, Fayetteville and Rogers. The couple is developing a shoe museum for their stores and recently received shoes from Bob Roncker, whose Running Spot won Store of the Year in 2008. n

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RUNNING INSIGHT

THE 50 BEST EVENT IN PICTURES Three pages of highlights from the 50 Best Running Stores weekend in Minneapolis in late June.

Mike and Alison Rush of Rush Running celebrate their big win.

John Rogers of Fleet Feet Maine.

Ann Ringlein of Lincoln Running Company.

Leigh Thigpen of Fleet Feet Huntsville celebrates a double win.

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The Fleet Feet Pittsburgh team celebrates its recognition.

The Fleet Feet Syracuse team.

Jeff Wells, Fleet Feet Richmond. There was no heartbreak for Heartbreak Hill.

2-Time UTMB Champion Rory Bosio

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RUNNING INSIGHT

THE 50 BEST EVENT IN PICTURES

Runner’s Alley and Marathon Sports were New England winners.

Maggi Murray and Dave Kazanjian of Whirlaway. Happy folks from Big River Running.

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The Fitniche team celebrates its Final 4 status.

Megan Searfoss from Ridgefield Running.

Ron and Sandra Elliott and Phillip Howe of Georgia Game Changers.

Runners Roost Lakewood is in the house. Justin Craig and Alia Polsgrove of Run Detroit.

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RUNNING INSIGHT

THE 50 BEST EVENT IN PICTURES

The Three Rivers team stands strong after receiving their award at the 50 Best event.

Don Jackson from Hanson’s Running enjoying the 50 Best Event.

Dave Church, Sorbothane, Betsy Hughes, Track Shack

Scott Gravatt from Nike, with Ann Ringlein.

The Cooks from Runner’s Edge in Farmingdale.

The Run Detroit team with Parker Karnan (right).

Jennifer Hazard of Maxwell Medals, Troy Leonard and Christina Henderson from The Running Event, and Betsy Hughes, Track Shack.

Playmakers’ Spencer Beatty and Brian Jones get ready for The Fast and The Curious scavenger hunt.

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RUNNING INSIGHT

How Specialty can beat the web by doing what it does best Noted retail consultant Parker Karnan provides insight during 50 Best Running Stores Conference.

here are a host of steps running specialty retailers can take to compete with the ever-present – and ever-growing – threat from online retailers. According to Parker Karnan, of Karnan Associates, during his presentations at The 50 Best Running Stores in America Event last week in Minneapolis, there are actually six main advantages that specialty stores have over the Internet. 1. They can combat the research component of the web by offering simple answers to complex questions. 2. They can beat the convenience factor of online shopping by offering a personalized in-store experience. 3. The immediacy of same day shopping trumps two-day delivery. 4. The curated assortments offered in running stores beats “the endless aisles” of merchandise offered on the web. 5. The human connection and high touch experience provided by run stores beats the anonymity of online shopping. 6. And by getting it right the ﬁrst time, run stores don’t have to offer the “ease of returns” that many web merchants say makes shopping with them so wonderful. This was one of the many topics covered by Parker Karnan of Karnan Associates during his presentations at The 50 Best Running Stores in America Event last week in Minneapolis. The 50 Best Conference featured presentations by Karnan and a team of retail faculty, along with pre-arranged meetings between 12

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retailers and brands and a team-building Scavenger hunt jokingly and appropriately called “The Fast and The Curious,” organized by Mill City Running of Minneapolis, which served as the host retailer for the event. “Convenience is the new battleground,” Karnan said. “And the simplified and personalized approach offered by running stores is a great way to combat decision fatigue that shoppers suffer from because there’s too much information available. Like many in attendance at the conference, Karnan was upbeat on the run specialty business for 2018. “The second quarter proved to be a great bounce back from the bad weather so many stores experienced this past winter,” he said, referring to the uptick as “Cabin Fever Sales.” Parker Karnan

“Convenience is the new battleground. The simplified and personalized approach offered by running stores is a great way to combat decision fatigue that shoppers suffer from because there’s too much information available.” PARKER KARNAN, RETAIL CONSULTANT

He said the third quarter would prove to be the most important time frame of the year because the summer and early fall drive so much business in run specialty. “Footwear sales are trending well and have been since last year,” noting that footwear sales were up in both units and dollars last year and that the average price per pair of shoes in the channel for 2017 was $112.00. He also noted that the accessory business is also growing, boosted in particular by sales of After Shokz and GoodR. Despite the bright spots in footwear and accessories, the channel’s overall sales have been hurt by struggles with apparel. “Apparel has been the tough category,” he said. “It was down 14.7% last year and if it wasn’t for that category, the entire channel would be up.” The connection that runners share with run specialty stores is evident in their social media habits. According to Karnan: 40 percent of runners follow a run store; 37 percent follow a running brand; 32 percent follow a local runner; 27 percent follow elite runners. “Specialty run is in a good place now, “Karnan said, “but stores need to keep pace. They need to move from marketing to consumers with true engagement to them and they need to move from being relevant to customers to being irresistible to them. n © 2018 Diversified Communications

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RUNNING INSIGHT

The 50 Best Process Explained Explaining to process behind the selection of the 50 Best Stores n America!

pecialty running stores go through a four-step process before being recognized as one of the 50 Best Stores in America.

Activity, Race Involvement, Social media Efforts, and Charity Groups. 3. After being reviewed by the event organizers, a select number of stores are mystery shopped by Franklin Retail, the top merchandising company in sports retail. Retailers are then graded on 20 different criteria.

1. First, specialty stores across America are nominated by their customers.

4. Finally, after the stores are mystery shopped they are then anonymously rated by vendors, based on their credit and their partnership efforts.

2. These nominated stores then fill out a questionnaire that details their history, community involvement, the brands they carry and outstanding employees. It then asks to put into their own words what they think qualifies them as one of the 50 Best. There are also questions about Most Exceptional

All of these factors are then considered before a store is recognized as one of the 50 Best. n

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RUNNING INSIGHT

The 50 Best Finalists The rundown of the Top 10, the Final Four and The Runners’ Choice Awards

THE 50 BEST TOP 10 A Runner’s Mind, Burlingame, CA Fitniche, Lakeland, FL Fleet Feet Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA Fleet Feet Spokane, Spokane, WA Red Coyote, Oklahoma City, OK Run For Your Life, Charlotte, NC Runner’s Alley, Manchester, NH Rush Running, Bentonville, AR Salt Lake Running Company, Salt Lake, UT Tortoise & Hare, Glendale, AZ

THE 50 BEST FINAL FOUR

Fitniche, Lakeland, FL Fleet Feet Spokane, Spokane, WA Run For Your Life, Charlotte, NC Rush Running, Bentonville, AR

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RUNNING INSIGHT NORTHEAST & MID-ATLANTIC

50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 Charm City Run Belair, MD

Fleet Feet Maine Running Portland, ME

Fleet Feet Pittsburgh Pittsburgh, PA

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In Their Words: Charm City Run, the recipient of the 2016 Store of the Year Award, is a running and walking specialty company that is committed to fitting every customer in the “right” shoe. Owners Josh and Kara Levinson opened their first store in 2002 in a 2200-square-foot space in Timonium City, MD, just north of Baltimore (The “Charm City”). They now have eight retail locations around Maryland — Annapolis, Bel Air, Columbia, Fells Point, Frederick, Locust Point, Timonium and a dual-concept running and lifestyle boutique in Belvedere Square. The owners’ goals are simple: Create a place where they would want to hang out and create a workplace where they would want to work.

In Their Words: Opened in February 2005 as Maine Running Company and converted to Fleet Feet Maine Running in 2013 by owner and operator John Rogers, it is Maine’s only run specialty store. At Fleet Feet Maine Running you will find a welcoming environment where runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts of all abilities receive great service and support. We offer an un-paralleled fit experience with Fleet Feet’s exclusive 3D Fit ID Scanning, providing precise fit measurements and data to provide the proper footwear and support for all running needs. Fleet Feet Maine Running is committed to growing Maine’s running and walking community with a variety of training programs, our free year-round run club and our Winter Warriors Program.

In Their Words: I purchased Fleet Feet Pittsburgh from the previous owner in 2007 and VP & GM Deb Doyle became part owner on January 1, 2018. Located in the South Hills of Pittsburgh, what sets us apart and makes us one of the 50 Best is our relentless pursuit of excellence. We do this with our customer through a premium in-store experience. We do this in our community through the numerous community events. We do this through our culture — passion! When you walk into Fleet Feet Pittsburgh, there is a palpable energy in the air. We truly believe that Running Changes Everything!

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RUNNING INSIGHT NORTHEAST & MID-ATLANTIC

50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 Fleet Feet Richmond Richmond, VA

Fleet Feet Syracuse Syracuse, NY

Fleet Feet West Hartford West Hartford, CT

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In Their Words: Fleet Feet Richmond is owned and operated by the father-and-son team of Jeff and Jason Wells. The first of two locations was opened in June, 2014, and the second location a year later. The Wells men have operated Fleet Feet stores since early 2002. Thoroughly entrenched in the town, FF Richmond is a sponsor and partner of numerous local groups and is always searching for ways to make the community a better place.

In Their Words: Fleet Feet Sports Syracuse, owned by Ed and Ellen Griffin, first opened its doors in 2000 with a location in East Syracuse, NY. A second store was opened in Clay, NY, in 2013. Over the years, Fleet Feet Sports Syracuse has become the hub for fitness and running, with more than 3000 people participating in training programs in 2017. In addition to providing an inclusive environment, Fleet Feet Sports Syracuse is involved in countless charity events and causes each year.

In Their Words: Fleet Feet Hartford opened its doors in 1997, but the Blozy sisters took ownership in June 2008. We are more than just a shoe store; we are a starting line. We pride ourselves on offering a great selection of products and training programs for all ages and abilities and love to inspire, motivate and invest in our community. We help put the “heart” in Hartford!

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RUNNING INSIGHT NORTHEAST & MID-ATLANTIC

50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 Heartbreak Hill Running Company Boston, MA

Lucky Road Run Shop Midlothian, VA

Marathon Sports Cambridge, MA

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In Their Words: Heartbreak Hill Running Company is an authentic brand, premier content producer, specialty retailer and high-energy training studio. Founded in 2009 by Justin Burdon and Dan Fitzgerald, Heartbreak has emerged as a leader willing to re-imagine what it means to be in the running business. Unmatched in its umbrella of services, Heartbreak is poised to leap into other major markets in the near future.

In Their Words: Lucky Road Run Shop opened June, 2012, and has since grown to three locations in Virginia â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Midlothian, Richmond and Fredericksburg. Husband and wife team owners, Jeff and Desiree Van Horn, operate Lucky Road from completely different backgrounds. Jeff was an often injured sub-elite runner with a degree in sports medicine. Desiree enjoyed half marathons from the back of the pack and obstacle events like Tough Mudder. Together they have created a happy and helpful atmosphere where everyone is welcome.

In Their Words: Founded in 1975 in a renovated firstfloor apartment near Harvard Square, Marathon Sports has grown to 12 retail locations, bringing our Right Fit process, unparalleled customer experience and community outreach to runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts across the Bay State. Our story began in earnest in 1992, when Colin Peddie took over the one-store operation, offering the pioneering concept of bio-mechanical analysis during the shoe selection experience. Since then we have opened 11 additional stores across Massachusetts, each of which has become an integral part of the fabric of its community. Though we have grown, our reason for being remains the same: We exist to inspire people to meet and exceed their health and fitness goals. This simple statement drives everything we do, every day, in every store.

ÂŠ 2018 Diversified Communications

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RUNNING INSIGHT NORTHEAST & MID-ATLANTIC

50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 In Their Words: A Washington, DC, metro area mainstay since 1991, Pacers Running has grown into a nationally recognized community-based retailer and producer of compelling consumer engagement activations and events. Led by principals Chris Farley and Kathy Dalby, Pacers Running is laser-focused on our mission to celebrate the journey and accomplishments of all runners, leading us to build authenticity and relevancy with our customers and our community.

Pacers Alexandria, VA

Potomac River Running Washington, DC

Ridgefield Running Ridgefield, CT

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In Their Words: Potomac River Running, owned by Cathy and Ray Pugsley, first opened in 2003 and currently operates eight doors in Northern Virginia and DC. By continually evolving the in-store experience and providing first-class service, PRR has been a fixture in the 50 Best contest since its inception. Potomac River Running’s retail stores integrate perfectly with their robust training programs and wide variety of races to create a “full service running community” worthy of being in the Top 50.

In Their Words: Ridgefield Running Company opened in 2014, in Ridgefield CT, a tiny New England town in desperate need of running store community. RRC’s mission is represented in the logo, a Celtic triskelion that symbolizes constant forward motion. Owner Megan Searfoss and her team are motivated to help each person find their “forward” and become part of the running community. RRC’s community outreach, on-going training programs, and monthly events keep the conversation about moving “forward together.”

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RUNNING INSIGHT NORTHEAST & MID-ATLANTIC

50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 In Their Words: Since 1997, Runner’s Alley has been the hub of New Hampshire’s running community. At each of its three locations the Runner’s Alley team is dedicated to helping every customer find what they need to continue living an active, healthy lifestyle. With year-round run groups, training groups, challenges and teams; extensive involvement in scholastics and local races; and active partnerships with health care professionals and events, Runner’s Alley truly supports every step.

Runner’s Alley Manchester, NH

Sayville Running Company Sayville, NY

Whirlaway Methuen, MA

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In Their Words: Sayville Running Company was opened in 2006 by co-owners Brendan Barrett and Michael Nolan, in a 1500-square-foot space in West Sayville. In 2011, the shop was moved about a mile east into downtown Sayville, inhabiting a larger 3000-square-foot space. Finally, Barrett and Nolan teamed up with manager Mike Petrina to open Smithtown Running Company, a second location in Smithtown, NY, in 2013. The shops remain an epicenter for Long Island runners and their local communities.

In Their Words: Whirlaway Sports is celebrating its 35th year in business this year. Owner Dave Kazanjian prides himself on his management team and entire staff. I can’t say enough about Maggi and Adriana and what they have done, along with my entire staff. We try to offer our customers a unique and unparalleled shopping experience. If our customers don’t leave here saying, ‘Wow!’ then we haven’t done our job. With more than 4000-square feet of space, our store is housed in a complex with a golf pro shop and breakfast diner and sits on a 16-acre golf driving range. Whirlaway Driving Range is the oldest family-owned range in the country!

RUNNING INSIGHT THE SOUTH

50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 1st Place Sports Jacksonville, FL

Big Peach Atlanta, GA

Charlotte Running Company Charlotte, NC

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In Their Words: 1st Place Sports opened its first location in September, 1978 and has been owned by Doug and Jane Alred since that time. We have five locations in the Jacksonville area and we are celebrating our 40th anniversary in September with a month-long series of events. 1st Place Sports has been ingrained in the Jacksonville community for all 40 years and we have raised over $1 million for local organizations. We manage close to 100 races each year, conduct five weekly social runs, have a training class and have exceptional staff. We work closely with HS cross country programs and donate funds to the programs. In addition we award many high school runners scholarships to attend summer running camps. We hold events to raise money for a local group, Marathon High, which trains inner city youth to run a half-marathon.

In Their Words: Co-owned by Mike Cosentino and Steve DeMoss, Big Peach Running Co. was founded in May 2004 and has become the trusted resource for the Atlanta running community, delivering an unforgettable experience rooted in service excellence, unparalleled product knowledge and a fun, friendly atmosphere. Big Peach on Wheels, the “Ultimate Mobile Shoe Fit Experience,” will debut in July, reaching underserved areas of the community, including schools and corporate campuses in addition to our seven well-established locations.

In Their Words: The Charlotte Running Company (CRC) opened its first location in June, 2000 as a passionate endeavor between two nationally ranked distance runners — Scott Dvořák and Eric Hichman. Since that time, under Dvořák’s guidance the brand has grown to become five stores with three owners, Scott Dvořák, Donny Forsyth and Jamie Davis. CRC has seen its success come not only from the product it sells and the knowledge, experience, and friendly disposition of its employees, but also from the relationships that have been forged in the Charlotte running community. CRC manages more than 100 running events throughout the year, as well as clinics, social events, camps and training groups. Additionally, CRC donates both time and money to several local running based charities.

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50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 In Their Words: FITniche started up in 2005, carrying home gym equipment as well as running shoes because we weren’t convinced we could sell enough shoes in sleepy little Lakeland to make a go of it. We’ve grown since then to three locations, a timing business and a crew of close to 30 employees (family members really), all of whom continue to preach our founding mantra of “Find your fit! Reclaim your fun!”

FITniche Lakeland, FL

Fleet Feet Huntsville Huntsville, AL

Fleet Feet Tulsa Tulsa, OK

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In Their Words: Fleet Feet Sports Huntsville was opened in January, 2003 by Dink and Suzanne Taylor. We are avid runners and triathletes and we feel blessed to be truly “living the dream.” We have more than 35 employees for our one store — our employees and customers are all our extended family. Every day we get to go to work knowing that we will get to help others reach their goals and live a better life. The best part of what we do is seeing other people happy accomplishing goals.

In Their Words: Tim and Lori Dreiling opened their first Fleet Feet store in August 2003. In the past 15 years, they have opened two more stores to better serve their community. Our vast array of running and walking programs now train more than 2000 individuals annually and 18 races represent some of the biggest and best events in the state. We also work tirelessly to support numerous local charities. We feel we have impacted the health and wellness of our community in a deep and meaningful way.

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RUNNING INSIGHT THE SOUTH

50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 Georgia Game Changers Running Company Richmond Hill, GA

iRun Texas San Antonio, TX

Red Coyote Oklahoma City, OK

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In Their Words: Georgia Game Changers Running Company opened its first store June, 2012 in a 1200-square-foot storefront in Richmond Hill. This store is family-owned, operated and managed by Sandra Elliott. Along with her co-owners, Ron Elliott and Phillip Howe, they outgrew their small location and built a 16,000-square-foot health and fitness complex, which now houses a new 6000-squarefoot running store. Game Changers opened a second store in Savannah’s historic district last year. Game Changers is among the best because of its emphasis on creating a community of comeback-minded individuals who get to realize dreams come true on many levels. It has been an amazing journey thus far, to see the influence, the “gamechanging” successes, the comebacks and the impact on people’s lives through their store.

In Their Words: Owners Michele and Mitch Allen share a strong passion for running and met while training at Dallas’ White Rock Lake. iRun Texas opened in December 2009 as Run On! San Antonio and was a partnership with Run On! Texas owners Rebecca and Bob Wallace. In October, 2012 the Wallace’s sold the Dallas area Run On! Stores, necessitating the name change of the San Antonio store. Michele and Mitch bought out the partnership and changed the name to iRun Texas. Since opening our original location in Stone Oak we have opened two locations in the northern corridor of San Antonio. iRun Texas is a family-owned business with a genuine interest in helping customers with their running needs, whether they are beginners or seasoned veterans.

In Their Words: Red Coyote Running and Fitness was founded in 2010 by Burke and Jon Beck in Burke’s hometown of Oklahoma City, OK. Red Coyote is named after their dog and favorite running buddy, Pancho. The store provides unmatched product knowledge and community commitment, creating opportunities for customers to achieve their goals. They helped launch Girls on the Run of Oklahoma and have recently been working with Cleats for Kids to build a program to fit running shoes and spikes on deserving cross-country and track athletes. Red Coyote even has its own beer, Negative Split.

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50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 Run For Your Life Charlotte, NC

Running Zone Melbourne, FL

Rush Running Bentonville, AR

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In Their Words: Founded by Larry Frederick in 1989, Run For Your Life is Charlotte’s original source for all things running. When Tim Rhodes and Chris Elkins acquired the shop in 2003, they continued to serve the region with the latest in shoes, clothing and essentials by adding multiple locations. We are proud to say that we go beyond being retailers. We want you to be a part of our family. Families share goals, milestone successes and personal bests with each other.

In Their Words: Since opening in 2003, Don and Denise Piercy have been serving the running and fitness community in Brevard County, FL, with Running Zone. Our goal is to promote healthy, active lifestyles and fitness in our community through both our retail location and with running and walking events and related programs through our non-profit 501 (C) (3) charity, Running Zone Foundation.

In Their Words: Rush Running Company opened its first location in Bentonville in the spring of 2008. Two additional doors have been added since – in Fayetteville and Rogers – by owners Mike and Alison Rush. We take pride in our community leadership and top-notch customer service. Our mission is to help the community achieve all their health-related goals. We motivate and give them the tools, they put in the work. We also have a very unique museum showcasing the history of footwear.

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50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 St. Pete’s Running Company St. Petersburg, FL

Track Shack of Orlando Orlando, FL

Varsity Sports Baton Rouge, LA

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In Their Words: Janna and Cody Angell got engaged during the Boston Marathon and they opened St. Pete Running Company in 2014 in sunny and vibrant St. Petersburg. They have brought together a running community and produce more than 150 running experiences each year — everything from Taco Runs to track training. Group runs often get more than 100 participants of all abilities. A darling of the running community here, the store’s group runs have had four engagements where the people met at the store. Their daughter has been flower girl in two of these weddings. Customers have gone so far as to get their logo, Sunny Runner, tattooed on their legs. They pride themselves on their StrideSmart Fit process, which not only recommends shoes, but also suggests strengthening and stretches specific for the individual.

In Their Words: Track Shack of Orlando opened in downtown Orlando in September, 1977. Almost 41 years later Track Shack, owned by Jon and Betsy Hughes, who met, where else, on their high school track, continues to be committed to its customers, a community of athletes and individuals with special footwear needs. They also own Track Shack Events and in 1994 established Track Shack Youth Foundation. Jon and Betsy have surrounded themselves with a dedicated and long-time staff, including their son, Chris, all who share their goals and their mission, “Keeping Central Florida Fit!”

In Their Words: Like most of the 50 Best stores, we understand our business is about building a relationship, not selling a shoe. And that relationship extends to the communities in which our stores operate. The specialty running industry is going through some big changes and the channel is shrinking at the expense of “one click; two-day ship to my door.” At all of our stores we try to provide that experience that can’t be “one-clicked”

BIG PERFORMANCE!

STABILITY, COMFORT & PAIN RELIEF

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FIT ANY SHOE OR BOOT

The 3/4 length Sorbothane® Ultra PLUS features an integrated arch support system and deep heel cup to help provide proper alignment and stability. The focused Sorbothane® heel provides long-lasting, shock absorbing comfort. Designed to fit in any shoe the 3/4 Ultra PLUS insert will out-last and out-perform competitive insoles without cramping the toe box.

3/4 Ultra PLUS FEATURES & BENEFITS • DEEP HEEL CUP Helps to provide proper heel positioning and foot alignment • LIGHTWEIGHT INTEGRATED ARCH Custom system provides – maximum stability and arch support • Sorbothane® FOCUSED HEEL Reduces harmful impact forces – helping to relieve pain, provide comfort and protect against impact injury • Air-Infused Sorbothane® Base Delivering superior cushioning • Dri-lex® Fabric Top Cover Helps to keep feet dry, cool and odor free

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Sorbothane® is the material that absorbs up to 94.7% of damaging impact force before it enters the body. Sorbothane® was created to duplicate the natural shock-absorbing ability of the human body. The 3/4 Ultra PLUS cushions the heel and helps to protect against impact-related pain and discomfort.

Plus – An Integrated Stability and Support System The Sorbothane® 3/4 Ultra PLUS features an arch component and a deep stabilizing heel cup. It helps provide maximum support, foot stability and proper foot placement for shock-absorbing comfort and protection.

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ALSO AVAILABLE THE FULL LENGTH

Ultra PLUS STABILITY INSOLE

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50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 Big River Running Company St. Louis, MO

Dave’s Running Shop Sylvania, OH

Dick Pond St. Charles, IL

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In Their Words: Big River Running opened in 2006 and has three locations in the St. Louis area. We opened a new flagship store in August 2017, creating one of the most beautiful retail spaces in the industry, elevating our level of customer service and expanding our product offerings. Not only have we seen sales growth, but we’re also evolving our charitable giving by launching Big River Gives Back, a program where we donate 10 percent of sales of our Big River branded merchandise to a local charity.

In Their Words: Dave’s Running Shop has been serving the Northwest Ohio community since 1973. Still owned by the Mason family of Delta, OH, Dave’s is proud to operate four retail locations, as well as a full-service race management company. Our motto: “Get Faster, Go Farther, Feel Better,” guides everything we do, from instore operations and community wellness initiatives to marathon training groups. Ohio’s Original Running Shop, 45 years and counting!

In Their Words: In August 1969, America’s oldest run specialty store, Dick Pond Athletics, was born. Dick Pond, an accomplished high school distance runner and All-American from WMU, wanted to offer quality running shoes at an affordable price and exceptional customer service. This remains our mission today, with our five retail locations, four traveling Shoemobiles and a team mail order business. Our stores are in Carol Stream, Lisle, St. Charles, Hoffman Estates and Park Ridge, and our Shoemobiles can be found at local races, school practices and meets.

BRIGHTEST REFLECTIVE TOTALLY AFFORDABLE COMPLETELY CUSTOMIZABLE visit www.BrilliantReflective.com for new products

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50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 Fleet Feet Chicago Chicago, IL

Fleet Feet Fort Wayne Fort Wayne, IN

Hanson’s Running Grosse Pointe, MI

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In Their Words: Fleet Feet Chicago opened its first store in 1996. Twenty-two years later and now with seven stores, the concept has not changed — “Running Changes Everything” is the belief that is preached everyday. Running certainly changed the lives of owners Lisa and Dave Zimmer. Working with 32 charity groups, the couple, along with their 140 employees, believes that running can change the world. Just ask them.

In Their Words: When Fleet Feet Sports Fort Wayne opened it’s doors in August of 2013, its founders , Jeanice, Kevin and Maggie Croy, had one goal in mind — to build a locally owned running store in Northeast Indiana that was inclusive and engaged all Indiana residents into the sport of running and promoting a healthier lifestyle. The store’s staff makes sure that they start each day with the thought process of “How can we change someone’s life in a positive way and make it better?” We have also been diligent in making a difference through our community outreach programs. Whether it is a Walk-fit program at a local business or a Youth Cross Country program at the YMCA or a charity run 5k at a winery, Fleet Feet Staff are always aggressively looking for unique ways to engage the residents of our local community.

In Their Words: Hanson’s Running Shop opened our first store in 1991 and we currently have four locations in the Detroit Metropolitan area. The stores are owned and operated by Keith and Kevin Hanson. In addition to providing six group runs a week, we also put on many low-cost races, including our summer series of cross-country races with a $2 entry fee. We started the Hanson-Brooks Distance Project in 1999 to help improve America’s competitiveness on the world stage. The project has produced many U.S. world team members, three Olympians and most recently a Boston Marathon Champion.

T HE SWEE T ES T C US H ION

The CLIFTON 5. Marshmallow-soft cushion. Marshmallow-light weight.

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50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 In Their Words: The Lincoln Running Co. is Lincoln’s oldest specialty running store – opening in February of 1975. The store has been in the same location, in downtown Lincoln, for all 43 years and has been owned and operated by the same Rogers family for all of those 43 years. We are involved in all things running — hosting long runs from the store and training classes from everything from beginning running to marathon training. Running is not all we do, though. We just want people to feel better and to be able to do whatever they are wanting to do — walk, run, be fit. We love what we do and plan to do this for the next 43 years also!

Lincoln Running Company Lincoln, NE

Mill City Running Company Minneapolis, MN

Naperville Running Company Naperville, IL

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In Their Words: Opened in 2013 by owners Bekah and Jeff Metzdorff, what makes Mill City Running Company special is the strong support we receive from our community — those who come to our group runs, volunteer at our events, run for our Race Team and shop at our store. We need to invent a word that means something between family and community, because that’s what they would be.

In Their Words: Kris Hartner founded Naperville Running Company in 2000. Since then, the store has opened two more locations in Naperville (2014) and Wheaton (2017). Continuing to be family-owned and operated, NRC prides itself on its superior customer service as experts in the field and are extremely active in the community. The staff dedicates their time and resources not only to customers, but to local schools, run groups and charitable organizations. With two gait analysis systems and an ever-growing passion to help both new and loyal customers alike, NRC strives to stand out as one of the best running stores in the country.

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50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 Peak Performance Omaha, NE

Playmakers Okemos, MI

Run 816 Liberty, MO

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In Their Words: Peak Performance opened in March, 1994 and will be celebrating 25 years in business in 2019. Mike and Jim Ewoldt are the founders and owner-operators of Peak Performance, which now has seven stores in three states. The main location is in Omaha, which also operates as the warehouse for the operation. What makes Peak Performance one of the 50 Best stores in the country is a tireless commitment to building relationships with our customers. Peak Performance is a family business and always attempts to treat their employees as one of the family. The two owners are always looking for the next competitive advantage and opportunity to increase sales and cash generation

In Their Words: Playmakers was opened in 1981 by Curt and Judy Munson. Playmakers was built on the philosophy to provide an enjoyable and productive environment to work, shop or visit. Owners John Benedict, Brian Jones and Tom Keenoy continue to strive to provide an exceptional customer experience with each customer. In 2006, Good Form Running was founded at Playmakers and is now taught throughout the country. Good Form has positively reached thousands of runners and walkers. We are also dedicated to continually giving back to our community through our Playmakers Fitness Foundation.

In Their Words: Run 816 was founded in 2015 by Nick and Tracy Pigg. We are the premier retailer for running and walking located in the heart of the city. We specialize in providing a top-notch customer experience, as well as quality product. We host weekly supported group runs, speed workouts and many other events â&#x20AC;&#x201D; all free and everyone is welcome.

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50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 RUNdetroit Detroit, MI

Running Central Peoria, IL

Second Sole Youngstown, OH

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In Their Words: When co-owners Justin Craig and Alia Polsgrove opened the first and only running specialty store in Detroit in 2013, they heard the jokes. The one that came up the most often, was “the only people that run in Detroit are being chased.” Fast-forward five years and you’ll see runners all over the city. These days the runners are the ones doing the chasing, mainly after PRs and BQs. While Justin and Alia downplay the role, RUNdetroit has had in the growth of Detroit’s running community, many locals will tell you that RUNdetroit has been a force for change in the community.

In Their Words: Running Central has been in business and a part of the Peoria, IL, community since 1977. The store was founded by Greg White and Steve Shostrom and in 2007 it was sold to Adam White. Since then the store has grown significantly and moved twice. Running Central is now located in the heart of downtown on the Peoria Riverfront. This move has played a critical role in helping Peoria revitalize its downtown community.

In Their Words: Second Sole was started in 1981 in Youngstown by Ohio State University alum Steve Hixson. Steve has grown Second Sole into a mainstay of the running culture across Ohio. Although Steve’s nine stores spanning Ohio and Western Pennsylvania serve a variety of different markets, our welcoming and knowledgeable staff help strengthen all of the running communities they serve.

FOR GIRLS. BY GIRLS.

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50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 Three Rivers Running Company Fort Wayne, IN

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In Their Words: Three Rivers Running Company opened for business in March, 2004 and now in its fifteenth year is owned by Brad Altevogt. As a locally owned company, 3RRC is totally dedicated to meeting the needs of our community. The 3RRC staff is comprised of runners who are personally invested in the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission and passionate about serving people. 3RRC takes a holistic approach to running and walking, and provides the best products and services to help our customers attain their goals.

ÂŠ 2018 Diversified Communications

TEC HNOLOGY

SONIC RA

L E S S V I B R AT I O N MORE RUNNING VIBE is the combination of ENERGY CELL+ and OPAL, a unique assembly that work together as a system to attenuate vibrations while delivering exceptional cushioning and rebound for Road Running and Trail Running shoes.

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50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 In Their Words: A Runner’s Mind (ARM), owned by Monte Keleher, was founded in 2010 with a single store on a local corner in the Bay Area. We now have four incredible community-focused stores and a thriving race management/timing business. ARM is more than a retail brick-and-mortar store: we are a brand, a way of life. We believe that Movement is Life and we plan on bringing movement into every community where we set up shop. We want to have a positive effect on people’s lives. We want to help people reach their goal — and then figure out their next. We want to bring running back to the sport that it once was in this country on a world-class competition level. We will not stop until we achieve all of these things, so come on in and join us. ARM Up!

A Runner’s Mind Burlingame, CA

In Their Words: A Snail’s Pace Running Shop was established in 1979. In 1992, Eddie and Tiffany Johnson bought into the business and helped it grow from one location to five doors in Orange County. Joe Lourenco came on board as a part-time staff member in 2000, graduated college and bought into the business. Currently Eddie, Tiffany and Joe are co-owners and actively operate the business. We have been amazingly blessed to cultivate a great team with a focus on helping Southern California stay active and healthy through our Running Club, Running Academy, Ninja Runner (women’s self defense for runners) and other community outreach based activities.

A Snail’s Pace Brea, CA

Fleet Feet Spokane Spokane, WA

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In Their Words: Fleet Feet Sports Spokane opened August, 2012 and is owned and operated by Wade and Julie Pannell. Since our inception, we have focused our business around the everyday runner and being an inclusive location for everyone who is on their journey to a more fit lifestyle. Training groups geared toward the first-time finisher are a staple of our store. Excellent customer service is our primary goal, while doing good in and for the communities we serve. In January we moved to our new flagship location and opened a full-service coffee shop inside the store to become the third space for our fitness community to enjoy before and after their activities.

BEST IN CLASS BATTERY LIFE

COROS.COM . @COROSGLOBAL . INFO@COROS.COM

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50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 In Their Words: FootZone opened in 1995 and is located in downtown Bend. Teague Hatfield originally managed the store and has been the sole owner since 1998. FootZone has 100-plus years of shoe fitting experience on staff and works hard to meet the needs of our dynamic community. We strive to respect and hopefully motivate our customers, staff and vendors and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re proud to be part of this fun and inspired industry.

FootZone Bend, OR

In Their Words: Runners Roost Lakewood opened in 2003 by Sonya Estes and Wanda Stevens ( a mother-daughter team). The store is currently run and operated by Sonya Estes Alderman and her husband, Chris Alderman. They pride themselves on working with runners and walkers of all types and having a large trail business, since they are near trails in the Colorado foothills. They have tons of events with local companies and athletes. Scott Jurek, Ultimate Direction, Newton footwear and Alan Liam, the owner of Skratch, are just a few of the local all-stars they have had in their store for talks and events. We have been fortunate to have our current manager, Joel Hamilton, on board for more than 10 years. Our customers know they will see familiar faces and someone they have worked with before.

Runners Roost Lakewood, CO

Salt Lake Running Company Salt Lake City, UT

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In Their Words: Salt Lake Running Company (SLRC) has been business since 1995 and has three stores located in the Salt Lake Valley. SLRC was founded and is owned by Guy and Debbie Perry. Our primary focus is to align our assets, build our brand and connect to our customer. As a result, SLRC is a place to shop, train and race. Our vision is to inspire people to move. SLRC is Movement Inspired.

ÂŠ 2018 Diversified Communications

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50 BEST RUNNING STORES 2018 In Their Words: Running and beer have been buddies for a long time. Shoes and Brews just takes it to the next level. Shoes and Brews is a specialty running shoe store with a joint taproom and brewery serving more than 20 of Colorado’s finest craft beers. At Shoes and Brews we leverage this friendship to bring an enticing social experience in the form of our weekly Social runs, the half-mile beer price challenge and new local races, to name just a few events. You don’t need to be a runner to enjoy a brew in our taproom or to be a beer drinker to come in and receive a great shoe fit for your goals. Opened in 2014 by friends and family in a joint venture to bring something new to our community, Shoes & Brews is the first-ever run shop and craft beer bar combination.

Shoes & Brews Longmont, CO

In Their Words: Opened in 2012 by owners Nathan and Rebecca Hohenstein, we believe two philosophical attributes have help set us apart — the service customers receive in-store and the events and investments we’re making outside our shop. We’ve begun monthly run/walk events, including The Pizza & Pint Run and Donut Run from the shop, and we’ve added The Arizona Youth XC Championships to our event schedule. It’s the commitment to service that our team exemplifies and we are incredibly blessed to have a team that loves working together to make a positive impact in the health and well-being of others. The serious investments we’re making in our team are, without question, the most important.

Tortoise & Hare Glendale, AZ

RUNNERS’ CHOICE AWARDS Presented to the stores that received the most nominations from consumers

St Pete Running Company

Performance Running Outfitters

Fleet Feet Huntsville

Fit2Run

Dick Pond

Lincoln Running Co

Runner’s Edge, MT

Runner’s Edge, NY

Haddonfield Running Co

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RUNNING INSIGHT

Fleet Feet presses toward $200 million in sales The unveiling of a new logo was one of many highlights of Fleet feet annual Conference.

Caption here please fill outward caption here

leet Feet celebrated its 42nd year in business by unveiling a new logo and holding one of the largest and liveliest conferences in its fourdecade history. The Fleet Feet annual conference is part business, part pep rally and part family reunion for the franchisor and its store owners, who own 113 of the 176 locations. Echoing sentiments heard throughout the running business, executives at the North Carolina-based franchisor, which has been owned by Investors Management Corp since 2012, say that business this year is showing growth in the mid-single digits. And Fleet Feet is doing its best to press the accelerator on that growth. The chain added 11 new locations last year to reach 176 doors and CEO Joey Pointer says sales will exceed $200 million this year. Fleet Feet has been steadily investing in its business over the past year when Pointer, the former CFO, assumed the CEO role. Pointer, who has won accolades from his franchisees for his leadership, hired wellregarded industry veteran Brent Hollowell 56

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as VP–marketing and vendor management one year ago and recently replaced himself as CFO with Matt Zeiger, an experienced executive and runner who originally applied to be a franchisee. The franchisor has also focused on offering unifying elements across its store group, particularly in its fitting process called Fit ID. Pointer sees a new logo, created to resemble a torch, as another step in presenting a strong unified look and feel across the store group, website and other digital efforts. Fleet Feet CEO Joey Pointer

“For over 30 years, our previous logo worked because of the effort our owners and staff put into giving it meaning through their actions in their communities,” said Hollowell. “This new logo builds upon those actions while modernizing and strengthening it for use digitally, on private label gear and apparel, and out in the community.” In addition to inclusion of the torch symbol, the logo officially drops the word “Sports” from all branding. The refresh will feature prominently in the brand’s new digital campaign, “Let’s Go,” which will roll out across social media over the next several months. As it does every year, Fleet Feet presented a range of awards and grants at its conference. Two special Put People First Awards were presented to two stores for their extraordinary work during natural disasters of the past year. The Bradens of Fleet Feet Houston were recognized for creating “Shoes for Houston” in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. And Rhonda Roman, of Fleet Feet Santa Rosa, was recognized for the work she did in her

RUNNING INSIGHT

store in the aftermath of the devastating Tubbs fires. The annual Fitlanthropy Grants were presented to: • Jen and Michael McCauley of Fleet Feet Augusta for their work with Hope for Augusta. • Stacy, Dusty and Caleb Robi n s on of F le et Fe et Sacramento for their work with Fleet Feet Oak Hill Racing. • Jessica and Matt Anderson of Fleet Feet Madison for their work with Allied Running Club Youth Program. • Shelby and Fred Joslyn of Fleet Feet Mechanicsburg for their work with Communities Rising. • Dustin Shinholser of Fleet Feet Athens for his work with Ridge Runners Running Club. • Krista Dugosh of Fleet Feet Murfreesboro for her work with Project Fit. • Lesley and Matthew Hol lema n of F leet Feet Jackson for their work with The Pair Tree. • Jeff and Jason Wells of Fleet Feet Richmond for their work with Kids Run RVA. • Julie and Wade Pannell of Fleet Feet Spokane for their work with Spokane Police Activities League. • Anne Stancil of Fleet Feet Tucson for her work with Community Kicks. • Lisa and Dave Zimmer of Fleet Feet Chicago for their work with Students Run Chicago. Brooks Sports won the Vendor Extra Mile Customer Service Award. Superfeet won the brand partner of the year in the Essentials Category. And Hoka One One won brand partner of the year in footwear. n © 2018 Diversified Communications

Put People First winners were recognized during the Fleet Feet Conference.

Hoka One One was named Brand Partner of the Year.

The Fleet Feet Store Support Team was on hand during the annual event.

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