Track Shack
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Retail (sporting goods) |
| Founded | September 1977 |
| Founder | Local running aficionados |
| Headquarters | Orlando , United States |
Key people | Jon Hughes, Betsy Hughes, Chris Hughes |
| Products | Running footwear, apparel, gear; gait analysis; training support |
| Owner | Hughes family |
Track Shack is a dedicated running specialty store located in Orlando, Florida, established in 1977 to cater to runners and walkers by providing footwear, clothing, and training support. Since 1983, co-owners Jon Hughes and Betsy Hughes have developed the enterprise into a prominent center for running and fitness throughout Central Florida.
Through its affiliate company, Track Shack Events, the business also manages local road racing events.
History
Founded in September 1977 by local running aficionados, Track Shack began its journey serving the community. Jon Hughes, a competitive athlete and alumnus of Seminole State College, took over as manager in 1978 and brought on Betsy Mackenzie (now Hughes) as part of the team.
Following their marriage in 1983, Jon and Betsy Hughes purchased the store and elevated its status within Orlando’s running community by organizing group runs, training sessions, and race events.
In 1994, the couple established the Track Shack Youth Foundation aimed at encouraging fitness among young people. Supported by funds raised through races, the foundation has donated more than $2 million to schools and community initiatives.
Operations
Track Shack operates from its original location on North Mills Avenue in Orlando. This family-owned shop is recognized for its customized fitting services and strong community involvement. The store specializes in running footwear, apparel, and gear while providing gait analysis and expert training guidance suitable for runners at every experience level.
The Hughes family remains deeply engaged in daily management activities, with their son Chris Hughes now part of the leadership team.
Events and community impact
Track Shack maintains a strong affiliation with Event Marketing & Management International (EMMI) through its division Track Shack Events, which was founded in 1991 to manage road race events. In 1994, the Hughes collaborated with Walt Disney World to launch the Walt Disney World Marathon, now integrated into the runDisney series.
On a local level, Track Shack Events is responsible for organizing the Orlando Corporate 5K, initiated in 1995 and currently recognized as the largest road race in the area.
Additionally, Track Shack hosts an annual Running Series, previously known as the Grand Prix Series, featuring prominent races such as the Winter Park Road Race 10K and the OUC Orlando Half Marathon.
Reception and recognition
Track Shack and its proprietors have received numerous accolades for their impact on running retail and promoting community wellness. In 2015, Jon and Betsy Hughes were honored as Florida’s Retailers of the Year by the Florida Retail Federation. The store has been highlighted by Runner’s World and other publications as an exemplary model of community-focused specialty retail.
Ranked among America’s Best Running Stores, Track Shack’s founders have also been inducted into prestigious circles: the Hughes entered the Running Specialty Hall of Fame in 2008 and the Running USA Hall of Champions in 2009.
See also
- runDisney – Walt Disney World running events co-founded by Track Shack
- Orlando, Florida