It’s one thing to be a runner, but it’s something entirely different to be a runner with support. When Josh and his wife Kara opened their first Charm City Run in Timonium, they had more in mind than just selling shoes. They wanted to change the way the Baltimore area moved. Since then (June of 2002), they’ve added stores in Bel Air and Annapolis and have tied their laces around all sorts of events, from the Baltimore Running Festival to local turkey trots. The races they manage are usually well thought out, efficient affairs, but the staff is always looking to improve.
The first time I walked into that old bank building in Timonium, I think I was about their third customer. I hadn’t been running long, and Josh was there, pulling shoes from the vault and explaining the mechanics of it all in a way I could understand. That eager spirit hasn’t been lost. Whether it’s helping high school kids find the right spikes for their senior track season, or reassuring a nervous baby-boomer that, yes, they do sell walking shoes, the good people of CCR are there to help. They don’t care how long you’ve been doing it, how fast you are, or how far you go, just so long as you get out there. I’m no business man, but that seems to be the perfect attitude for a successful specialty shop.
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What has been the most unexpected part of owning a local running store?
The most unexpected part of owning a local running store is the people. I meet people frequently with amazing stories that they share in such a matter-of-fact, modest manner. I think the stories that move me the most have to do with weight loss. I help customers frequently that have lost over 50-100 lbs. I admire their courage, humility, strength and pure desire to change what, in most cases, has been a generational culture of poor health and obesity. To play a small part in this effort is an honor and a privilege.
Of all the events with which Charm City Run is involved, what’s your favorite? Why?
The Run to Remember. My wife and I were visiting the east coast [from Texas] when 9/11 occurred. I remember the outpouring of love and support for firefighters and policemen, and I thought to myself why does it take a tragedy of epic proportions for us to appreciate those that protect and serve. That is shameful. Our goal was that in Baltimore that would never be the case again. At least on one morning a year, we would be with each other, with those that protect and serve and we would be afforded the opportunity to say thank you. The venue is amazing. Runners run beneath crossed ladders with the American flag above them. The sun usually rises right between those ladders with the Shot Tower in the background, and we finish in Federal Hill looking over our city. The runners and sponsors have raised $300,000 in support of police and fire causes. They are making a real difference in buying AED’s, purchasing a K9, and supporting the mounted unit. It is a wonderful event and always moves me for a multitude of reasons.
What changes have you seen in people’s running and shopping habits over the last 12 months, and how much of that is related to the economy in your opinion?
The last 12 months have certainly been interesting. Luckily for running specialty they have been less interesting than the world at large. My feeling is that the run is sacred and one of the last elements of someone’s life to forfeit. Business has been solid and I am always grateful for the amazing customer loyalty we enjoy. If there has been any change, it has been that people will forgo the extra pair of shorts or add-ons that are nice to have but not a need to have. The core business remains strong.
How does the “live. give. run.” motto enter into both your business and personal life?
Wow, do you have a few days?
Live the life you want to live. So often in this world you see people do things because that is what is expected, or people feel like they have to live a certain lifestyle or have a certain type of job, or you hear people say they work for money so they can afford to do the things that make them happy. Kara and I wanted our kids to live with parents that loved what they do and followed their dream. We want them to know that they can do anything they want as long as they are making a positive contribution to the community in which they live. Running for me and others is far more than exercise it is peace and clarity. I run most everyday not simply for fitness, but for the simplicity and clarity of perspective that allow me to make hopefully the right decisions and be a better parent and husband. If running leads to clarity and clarity helps people pursue their dreams, we can play a part in the positive reinforcement necessary for people to live the life they want to live.
Give. There are many ways to give back and I nor anyone else should judge what, where or how people give, but giving back is essential for our community and our kids must know that giving leads to a fulfilled life. While America is a country whose citizens give a lot, Kara and I feel that most, including us could give more. “Give” is to let our customers know that giving is at the forefront of Charm City Run’s mission. “Give” is a challenge to Kara and I and the Charm City Run family that we always need to do more and can do more. “Give” is a constant reminder to our customer family so they ask themselves the same questions we are asking ourselves.
Run. Get moving. Exercise also leads to a fulfilled life. Whether it be running or something else, when you feel better, you make better decisions, you are more patient with people and you gain that clarity that allows you to be more efficient with your time. Different folks have different goals and we respect them all. For our family, a life of fitness is not an option. Our kids are raised with mommy or daddy being out for a run and I look forward to many years of running together. My son Ben is 8 and we have started doing 5Ks together. This has brought me, and hopefully him, so much joy. I must say that we have several customers with older daughters that run together before school or on the weekends or train for events together. There is something special about this father/daughter running relationship that I hope to cultivate with my girls. I admire those families.
If you had a friend coming into town for a single day, what one thing would you tell them not to miss? Why?
Great question. I am born and bred Charm City and have such pride in our town. The first thing that popped into my mind was the Aquarium. One of our employees is a dolphin trainer. They do such a great job there and I have never heard a family who was visiting say they were underwhelmed. I think a walk around the harbor with a visit to the Aquarium and Science Center and a lunch outside is a pretty special day. For the adult crowd, I have to say that in this season a Ravens game with an 11-11:30 start at Mothers or Cross Street. I love spirit and passion and pride. All of those things are evident in Federal Hill on Sunday and in the walk to the game.
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“5 Questions with…” is an occasional feature on The Running Bowline which picks the brains of local people doing interesting things. If there’s someone you’d like to see featured please let me know!
