Best Sports Store: Village Runner
It may not be the largest, but Village Runner was voted Best Sports Store after serving the running community for more than 19 years. Photo
A specialty running store that has served thousands of runners and walkers, Village Runner offers new running shoes, apparel and accessories at two locations in the South Bay. The knowledgeable staff help runners of all skill levels reduce the risk of leg, knee and foot injuries.
For more than 19 years, the Village Runner has also been promoting and sponsoring local running events including the Village Runner 4th of July Run which draws approximately 3,000-plus participants a year. Portions of the proceeds from the 4th of July Run have gone to the Redondo Beach Firefighter’s Community Relief Fund and the Redondo Beach Police Department’s D.A.R.E. program.
The Village Runner St. Patrick’s Day 10K Run-5K Run/Walk and Little Leprechaun Dash for the Gold also plays host to over 2,700 participants a year.
“Having run competitively myself, I make sure to have accurate courses with water, mile markers and a professional timing company,” owner and race director Mike Ward said. “I also make sure to support elite runners by giving them complimentary or discounted entries into the races and by offering prize money to both 10K and 5K finishers.
“I also strongly believe that my staff members have done an incredible job throughout the years in working with the runners in the community and helping them to stay healthy and enthused about running.”
Both locations are open Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Village Runner: 1811-A S. Catalina Ave., Redondo Beach. 310-375-2626; 1840 Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach. 310-546-1888. villagerunner.com
Runner-up: Super Sports: 2930 Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach. 310-545-5272. supersportsmb.com