History of Front Runner Athletics

Front Runner Athletics was started in 1982 by Louis Priddy. Louis was a runner and wanted to capitalize on the running boom of the 1980s and he was always interested in helping the community. He decided a running store would help him accomplish both goals. The original name of the store was Running Factory II and it was located on Highway 153 across from the present day Super Walmart. He started out selling running shoes, apparel, and accessories. He soon changed the name to Front Runner Athletics and it has stayed that way for over twenty years.

Front Runner quickly developed a reputation as being a knowledgeable, friendly, running store. The medical community recognized the product knowledge and customer service at Front Runner as being the best in the region. Consequently, Front Runner continues to receive more medical referrals than any shoe store in Chattanooga.

Over our 22 years of business, growth has taken Front Runner to four different locations in the Hixson/Hwy 153 area. Louis built the present day location, at 4251 Hixson Pike, in 1997. The store has over 4,000 square feet of shopping area and allows the customer plenty of space to browse over the inventory.

As the business grew, Louis looked to add products for other sports besides running. Front Runner added soccer, tennis footwear, and wrestling during the time Louis owned the store. Louis also accomplished his goal of helping the community along with being a successful businessman. Under his ownership, Front Runner sponsored races for both the Big Oak Ranch and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

In September of 2001, Louis sold the store to the current owners, Chad and Denise Varga. Louis wanted to keep the store in touch with the running community and the sale was a great match. Chad was a recognized regional runner who understood what Front Runner was all about.  Since the sale of the store, Front Runner has added swimwear and swim accessories to its inventory. 

Louis' philosophy for Front Runner was that we serve the athlete, not the spectator. Therefore product knowledge and customer service were critical to the success. The focus stays the same to this day.

Front Runner stands for a knowledgeable staff that takes the time to serve the customer's needs!