Run On! Richardson was my first tantalizing foray into the world of running. My first time in the store was back in March 2006. I remember the incident clearly like it was yesterday - I got a recommendation from my GF at the time to visit a specialty running store and get fitted for running shoes.
I walked in, nervous, and was greeted by George, a British chap with an unmistakable accent. He had me take off my shoes and socks, roll up my pant sleeves, and took foot measurements. Also had me walk around barefooted, ie, a gait and pronation analysis. Ended up fitting me into some Brooks Adrenaline GTS 6's, which ran about $130. Also got the Brooks clothes - shorts, shirt, and some socks. George was extremely helpful, recommended many different pairs of shoes, and gave me some beginners running tips.
The thought of a matching running outfit made me feel like a real runner...I felt...like a badass. Later that day I went out for what can only be described as a painful 1 mile...and shelved my running shoes for about 3 months. Why run when I can sit on my butt and play XBox? I know what I'd rather do!
Went back into Run On early in the summer to get some supplies and ran into George again, who saw the newbie mistake of trying to run too far and getting frustrated with it. Gave me some great beginning advice to ease me into it. I started running again during the summer/fall, and then started running religiously 6 days a week all the next year. Entered into my first two 5K's late that year and got hooked. Long story short, I've since completed more 5K's than I can remember, multiple 10/15K's, about 10 half marathons, and 5 full marathons. (A lot of which were sponsored by Run On!)
I owe my lifestyle change and passion for running for the first and second time that I went in and talked with George, who, is a regular fixture and staple of the Run On! company. He can be seen at every race Run On puts on coaching others or running himself. A lot of fun to talk to and just listen to his multitude of running stories.
I've gone into the store countless times for various packet pickups and just to shoot the breeze and pickup supplies - the employees there are outstanding and have a definitive passion for running. They love seeing everyone from a newbie just starting out to elite level racers...their goal is to help people run, period. It's not about getting someone into the most expensive shoe just to make a sale, or the shoe that the person wants to buy. Sometimes common sense has to take over and they'll recommend the right shoe for you, versus that fancy racing flat you saw someone wear at the lake. They do a great job of trying to fit the right shoe to the right person.
I've also had the opportunity to participate in many of the social events Run On! puts on with their marketing agency - DFWruns. They're a fantastic way to socialize, network, and make new friends. I owe a big thank you to Run On! Richardson for making a positive impact and change to my life that I will forever remember. read more