More than three dozen runners can look forward to pounding the pavement in new shoes this week thanks to West Seattle’s first specialty running store, West Seattle Runner, located at Charlestown and California.

The grand opening on April 10th. attracted hundreds of local runners, supporters and friends to the second floor location throughout the first two days of business.
  Owners Tim and Lori McConnell built the store with a special focus on “keeping it local” and working tirelessly to involve the community in opening preparations.

There are stadium seats from the old Chief Sealth High School in the shoe fitting area and a row of reclaimed lockers near the door holding T-shirts with the store’s logo. 
 

West Seattle Runner worked with local designer Lonjina Verdugo for the logo, Jeff Webb for the store Web site, Seattle Logo Pro for silk screening, Zebra Printing for postcards and flyers, Authentic Home Paint, 2nd Use Building Materials and West Seattle U-Haul to bring the space together in less than a month after signing a lease.
  Much of the running gear is also Northwest centric, with Brooks, Oiselle, Moving Comfort, Brooks, Amphipod, Nuun and Superfeet among the regional specialty brands carried. 
 

During opening celebrations, free massages and food welcomed neighbors and attracted shoppers to browse the lineup of running shoes, apparel, fuel and accessories. Assistant Manager Justin Craig joined the owners in providing expert shoe fitting advice and said he enjoyed, “meeting so many enthusiastic new runners.”
 

Lori McConnell, an accomplished marathoner, and two-time Boston Marathon participant, is an expert regarding what runners want and need. “It is so great to have a place to come where we can be surrounded by runners, talking about running, and making sure folks have the best gear to get out and hit the road, trails or track.” A few personal touches around the store make sure runners know they now have a clubhouse for their favorite sport in their own backyard.

Customers are invited to bring in their race pictures and newspaper results to post on the wall, plus there is a “Cheer Board” calling out the names of local runners and their next big race. 
  “We are so happy to fulfill that need in West Seattle for all runners,” said McConnell. “Whether they are out for their first mile or heading out for an ultra-marathon, we love it all!”

West Seattle Runner is open Monday through Friday, 10a.m. – 8p.m., Saturday, 10a.m. – 7p.m. and Sunday, 11a.m. – 5p.m. and can be found online at www.westseattlerunner.com .


 You can reach them by phone at 206.938.0545