New Fleet Feet owners get Carson athletes geared up for Nevada Day run

It's never too late to start training.

That's the ethos of Carson Fleet Feet owners Scott and Joy Keith.

The Keiths acquired the legendary running franchise's Carson flagship in June, combining a love of outdoor pursuits with the convivial family atmosphere that has won over athletes from the region.

"We get people from all over - including Tahoe and Reno - coming in and saying that this is the only place they'll shop for shoes," Scott said.

"We were customers for years and when we heard the former owners were thinking about selling, we jumped at the chance," Joy added.

While exercise fads (Jazzercise, Tae Bo, step aerobics, Thighmaster, Bikram Yoga anyone?) have come and gone in the almost three decades Fleet Feet has been in Carson, one constant remains the same:

"We live in a beautiful area and what better way to enjoy what we've got here in (Northern) Nevada than to go for a run or bike?" Scott said.

The Keiths and Fleet Feet are sponsors and race organizers for the 19th annual Carson Nugget Nevada Day Classic - an eight-kilometer run, two-mile run or two-mile walk through the historic downtown district which takes place starting at 8:15 a.m. on Nevada Day, Oct. 27.

Co-sponsored by the Nugget, Fleet Feet, and Carson running club the Sagebrush Stompers, proceeds from the run will benefit Special Olympics.

"Like owning the store the (race) is just something we've always wanted to be a part of," Scott said.

The Sacramento-based Fleet Feet, which now has more than 80 stores across the U.S., opened the Carson City store 27 years ago -the fourth in the chain.

"The store has grown and we've had an excellent summer," Joy said.

The Keiths are expanding the store's inventory to include more gear for triathletes: From wetsuits and goggles to an easy-to-access pouch which straps on a bike frame for storage of restorative supplements like Gu and Clif Shots, the store is "more than just running," Scott said.

"We're always going to have a clientele of people who love to train and always will," Joy said. "But it's just as good to see someone come in for the first time and ask questions about how they can get started.

"They realize, it's not that tough - anyone can get out there."

• Contact reporter Andrew Pridgen at apridgen@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1219.

19th annual Carson Nugget Nevada Day Classic

More than 400 runners and walkers are expected to participate in the 19th annual Carson Nugget Nevada Day Classic at 8:15 a.m. Oct. 27. The event, sponsored by the Carson Nugget, Fleet Feet and the Sagebrush Stompers, benefits Special Olympics.

The run: Participants have a choice of an 8K run, a two-mile run or a two-mile walk through the city's historic district. All races will start at the intersection of Telegraph and Curry streets.

Fees: $25, if the entry fee is postmarked by Oct. 15; $30 if after. Two adults and two children from the same family can participate for $75 if postmarked by Oct. 15; $90 if after.

Awards: Top finishers in 10 age categories will receive awards.

For information: 883-3361

On the Net: www.nevadaday.com/festivities/run-walk.htm