Meet the Retailer: Jon and Betsy Hughes

We couldn’t hold the 2022 Industry Conference in Orlando without taking the time to catch up with one of Running USA’s founding couples: retailers and event producers Jon and Betsy Hughes. Co-owners of Track Shack – a retail store and gathering place for Orlando runners – and Track Shack Events, an event production operation, the Hughes’ have been long celebrated in the industry for their leadership, willingness to share best practices and innovative business approach. As they wind down careers that began in 1977, we were able to catch up with Jon Hughes just after the 2022 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend events, which took place in mid-January.

“When we produced the (Disney) event for the first time in 1994 it not only changed our company forever, but it also changed the landscape of road racing. The Disney Marathon was the first major entertainment marathon. The excitement, anticipation, and the adrenaline rush that first weekend in January is indescribable,” noted Hughes.

Here are his insights on the past two tumultuous years for the industry, and a few great tips about how to best enjoy your conference experience – from someone who has attended 16 of 18 events!

What is your perspective on the running industry coming out of a nearly twoyear pandemic period? I'm optimistic about our store and events. We, like others in our industry, saw a lot of new and returning runners/walkers to the sport. Now it's up to all of us to keep those customers active and engaged. Even if we all keep a percentage of those in the fold, it's a big bump for the industry.

Any specific observations about running retailers and how you have been impacted for better or worse by the last two years? Running retailers had to pivot as much as event organizers over the last two years. For example, for the first time in 40+ years, we created an online presence. We offered curbside and delivery options and we also did virtual fittings. In the last year, we've had to deal with staffing challenges and supply chain issues, but we've been creative in both areas and have maintained or increased sales.

What’s one professional goal you have for 2022? Maintain or increase our current staff at the store/event company and elevate people into leadership positions. Increase retail sales and increase participation in our events, ultimately to improve the health of our entire community.

What’s one event you’re looking forward to in 2022 and why? I always look forward to our Lady Track Shack 5k. This event holds a special place for us. We created this event in 1978 and it's so special to women, known and unknown to us, who have breast cancer or have been affected by the disease. Betsy and I are also looking forward to our son's wedding.

How many Running USA Industry Conferences have you attended? As a co-founder of Running USA, I think I've only missed two conferences.

What is your favorite part of attending the Running USA Industry Conference? I look forward to seeing friends from near and far! The experience of collaborating with industry colleagues and peers, sharing best practices is invaluable.

What’s your best advice for conference newcomers? Don't be shy, ask questions at the seminars; don't feel like any of the members, particularly representatives from major events like the Boston or Disney marathons, are unapproachable. It's a welcoming environment; everyone is willing to share.

As an Orlando resident, what should visitors know? There's a lot more to see and do beyond the theme parks. We have some beautiful places to run – on road and trails. Central Florida has some unique places to visit! Look for me at the conference and I'll share some of my favorites.

Anything else you’d like to add? While the Lady Track Shack 5k is special on the local level, the other most important running event in my career and that I look forward to will always be the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend.

I hope that in 2022 we can all stay healthy and turn the corner away from the pandemic. //