A Running Start

Specialties

A Running Start is a unique, service-​oriented store where you’ll find everything for your running & walking needs! Our dedicated staff will assess your running or walking style and recommend an appropriate shoe. We feature name-​brand running shoes from Saucony, Asics, Brooks, Mizuno, and New Balance, as well as performance gear from Moving Comfort, Hind, SportHill, Sugoi & DeFeet!

Beginners & experienced runners alike will find everything they need from shoes to heart-​rate monitors, technical apparel, watches, energy gels, sunglasses, and anything in between! Visit us often for race information, coupons & specials!

History

Established in 2004.

A Running Start was founded in May, 2004, by Sorita Averill-​Fitzgerald, an avid runner, marathoner, biker and triathlete.

Originally located in the 600 block of Penn Avenue in West Reading, A Running Start has since become a leader in the retail running business by offering professional service and top quality merchandise for runners and triathletes. In 2007, the store moved to its current location at 705 Penn Avenue.

In 2010, A Running Start received a «Top 50» designation for outstanding customer service and professionalism, an award presented to only 50 running specialty shops in the United States. In 2012, the store was expanded to accommodate an ever-​growing customer base.

Meet the Business Owner

Sorita Averill-​Fitzgerald E.

Business Owner

Sorita is the founder and owner of A Running Start. She runs recreationally and competitively, entering events ranging from 5K races to marathons and, more recently, triathlons. Sorita started running at age 28, despite a history involving asthma, finding that running actually helped to improve her lung conditioning. She started training for 5K runs, then joined a running club and started training for longer distances, including marathons. She enjoys the socializing that group running provides as well the chance to enjoy local trails and scenery.

She opened A Running Start to realize her dream of providing a service-​oriented shop where runners of all ages and abilities could find shoes, technical apparel and accessories to meet their needs. She also initiated «Learn to Run» and half marathon training programs that provide proper instruction, training advice and supervision for participants new to the sport.