The Runners Shop celebrates milestone

By Amna Ahmad

In 1975, The Runners Shop (374 Bloor St. W.), opened its doors with a simple mission: to support runners and help them achieve their goals. Half a century later, that mission is just as strong, and the store has become a cornerstone of the local running community.

Originally opened in Port Credit by David Ellis, The Runners Shop is Canada’s oldest running speciality store, and it just celebrated its 50th anniversary. Lynn Bourque, current owner and longtime runner, is a testament to the strong community fostered by the shop. 

Over 25 years ago, Bourque discovered the shop as a member of the run club. From there, her running journey took off, and along with it, her new career. 

“I started running, and I just never stopped,” said Bourque.

Having owned the shop for seven years, Bourque has witnessed it all, from a surge in running during COVID to significant changes in footwear technology in the last five years. From all of this, she says her favourite thing about the job is connecting with people and being a support in their journeys. 

“Theres a lot that goes on here beyond selling shoes,” said Bourque. 

Greg Lindsay, store manager, has been at The Running Shop for almost five years and has been a runner for even longer. 

“My favourite part of this job, undoubtedly, is every Monday morning, when Lynn comes in, and after she’s been here for five minutes, she always says, ‘you know on the weekend I was thinking’ and then who knows where we’re gonna go,” said Lindsay. 

Lindsay first met Bourque over 20 years ago during their fine dining days working at Canoe. From there they started a lasting friendship that extended to working together at the shop.

From long-time friends to new team members, the staff at The Running Shop form a close-knit group who enjoy working together. Their shared passion for running and helping customers creates a welcoming atmosphere for everyone who walks through the door.

Michael Denomme, a newer hire, has worked at the shop for three years. Referred to as the shop’s ‘shoe dog’ by Bourque, Denomme is your go-to guy for gear-related interests. 

“I’m a bit of a gear head when it comes to running shoes, so I really love just getting to talk to lots of different people about nerdy things about running shoes,” said Denomme. 

Denomme, like Bourque, started his career at the shop by joining the running club. From there he started working part-time, and before he knew it, he was there every day.

Whether you are a seasoned runner, or just starting out, The Running Shop has something for all. 

READ MORE:

• CHATTER: Runners Shop keeps the pace during pandemic (Mar. 2021)