Today we’d like to introduce you to Julia Fasciglione
Hi Julia, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
After working in marketing and sales in the food industry for about 15 years, I was ready for a change. My husband Ludo and I, both natives of France, had met on a basketball court in Paris, and we loved staying fit and active together. So we entertained the idea of opening a gym or fitness studio someday.
While researching businesses in the sports industry, I discovered that Front Running Sports – Lake Mary’s premier store for athletic footwear – was looking for a new owner. I was hesitant to get into the retail business at first but decided to give it a closer look.
We were living in Miami at the time, and made the four-hour drive to check out Front Running Sports last year, and after meeting the previous owners, we were immediately sold.
Front Running Sports is more than just an athletic shoe store. It is a place where employees truly care about their customers
and are passionate about helping them achieve their fitness objectives by making sure they have the proper footwear.
It’s about spending time with potential customers and understanding where they’re coming from. It’s about fitting them and advising them on the right footwear so they can achieve their goals.
Front Running Sports has been in Lake Mary since 2007 and I am the third owner. It’s always been independently owned.
We realized that the whole mission was exactly like what we were trying to achieve, but just in a different way.
I took over as owner in October 2023 and since then has worked hard to ensure that Front Running Sports continues to
provide the quality service and footwear that loyal customers have come to expect, while adding my personal touch with a
new logo, new website, and new products.
Front Running Sports also has a running and walking group that meets on Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m. and supports local races, as well.
We are trying to be the best specialty walking and running store we can be. We don’t just sell shoes.
We’re selling a service and our expertise. Whatever your goal is, we can help.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Serving the community is what we aim to do. We are in a destination location so making sure people know where we are located is key.
Also, sharing why it’s important to get fitted for shoes instead of just buying anything online will benefit your health on the long run so customers’ know it’s worth the trip to the store to get fitted by experts.
We’ve been impressed with Front Running Sports, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We are a specialty running and walking store.
Our knowledgeable team at Front Running Sports is dedicated to providing personalized guidance based on your unique needs and goals. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or new to fitness, we take the time to understand your individual requirements and recommend the perfect footwear solution to keep you comfortable and supported during every activity.
From your initial visit to long-term follow-up, our commitment to your satisfaction never wavers. We go above and beyond to ensure you receive ongoing support and assistance, whether it’s troubleshooting a fit issue, recommending accessories, or simply providing encouragement on your fitness journey.
As an integral part of the Seminole County community, we pride ourselves on fostering meaningful connections with our customers. Beyond selling shoes, we strive to create a welcoming environment where you feel valued and supported, whether you’re participating in group runs, attending community events, or simply stopping by for a chat. At Front Running Sports, you’re not just a customer – you’re part of our active family.
What is different at Front Running Sports than any other shoe store is that we actually fit you. We will actually measure your feet and watch you walk or run. Then, based on the activity you are looking at practicing with your new shoes, we will share what we believe are the best options for you. You will be in experts’ hands every step of the way.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Excellence in customer service, including experience in the store and product offering.
Pricing:
- We practice prices set by brands
- We have a loyatly program
- We offer military and first responder discounts
- We offer discounts to all track and Cross Country teams
- We price match brands online pricing
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.frontrunningsports.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/front_running_sports/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frsports/
Image Credits
Sophie Labruyere
