%20Large.jpeg)
Cue this: a love for the starting line. It’s electric with nerves, bright with color, and the momentarily contained energy that transforms into kinetic when the gun goes off. The Yakima Mile’s starting line is extra special in its inclusivity: it welcomes families and simultaneously rising star and elite athletes. That format, accessible and exhilarating at the same time, is exactly the kind of event Fleet Feet loves to support and find ways to collaborate with.
Fleet Feet PNW is a locally-owned and operated group of stores across Washington State and California, was built around serving runners and walkers in a personal, community-focused way. It’s mission: to be a hub for runners, athletes and all who move — where an exceptional fit experience, expert outfitters, curated product and inspiring training programs meet to take them further than gear alone ever could.
For owners Wade and Julie Pannell, that mission comes from lived experience. Wade remembers his first 5K as a turning point, when the energy of the crowd and the sense of shared effort made running feel less like a sport and more like belonging. Julie shares a similar path, from not enjoying running early on to discovering, through training and consistency, how much it could add to her life. Together, they believe running lives in two places at once, in the individual effort and in the community that surrounds it. Wade says, “We want everyone who walks into our store to feel welcome and heard.” Julie adds, “You belong here. We want to encourage you along your fitness journey.” That belief shows up in every interaction, whether inside the store or out in the community at events like the Yakima Mile.
As race day approaches on June 6, Fleet Feet PNW is focused on helping every runner arrive at the starting line feeling prepared, supported and confident. The best place to begin is the Fleet Feet fit process, a personalized experience designed to understand each runner as an individual. Through one-on-one outfitting, 3D foot scanning and dynamic movement analysis, outfitters take the time to find the right shoes, socks and insoles for comfort, performance and confidence. For a mile race, lightweight, responsive shoes paired with moisture wicking socks and supportive insoles can make all the difference in how you feel from the first step to the finish.
Race day is June 6. If you're running the Yakima Mile, now is a great time to stop into your nearest Fleet Feet location for a fitting — whether you're dialing in race-day footwear or just getting started. Visit Fleet Feet in Tri-Cities, or in one of Fleet Feet’s other locations across Washington State (including Spokane, Tacoma, Olympia, Puyallup, Bonney Lake and Vancouver).
