Bev Lynch, owner of Running Excels, 10328 S. Western, is an avid BAPA supporter. The store sells running shoes, clothing and accessories for runners at every stage — from casual runners to those training for a marathon.
“BAPA does a great job of supporting me and all businesses in the neighborhood,” Lynch said. “They’ve written articles about the store and my presence in the neighborhood, and they advertise our races and events.” Lynch was also happy to have Running Excels as the designated packet pick-up spot for the Ridge Run. “They set up the packets here, which gives my store great exposure and adds a little excitement to the racers picking up their packet in a running store,” she said.
Running Excels is dedicated to helping runners and walkers throughout the neighborhood reach their goals with the proper equipment and coaching. The store has a competition for anyone in the neighborhood to run the “Eagle” as a part of their “Run Beverly” program. The Eagle is a 6-mile route mapped out in the shape of an eagle; if a runner completes it 25 times they earn a t-shirt; 50 times for a $50 Running Excels gift card; 75 times for a Running Excels gift bag; and 100 times the runner earns a party and raffle entry for shoes. A weekly running group meets on Tues. and Thurs. at 6 p.m., and Sat. at 7 a.m. However, runners don’t have to run with the club to complete the Eagle.
Through the running app Strava, runners track their runs of the Eagle, which Lynch can access to keep track of the number of times an individual runs it. “The challenge runs through the end of the year, and you can run as often as you want and whenever it’s convenient for you,” Lynch said.
