Track Shack

Tom's Journey: From First Steps to Chasing New Challenges

Tom Hoke's running story began with a beginner running plan and one simple decision: to run his first-ever race. That race introduced him to Track Shack, and after signing up for the Winter Park 5K, he discovered everything the store and community had to offer. He completed his first Fanatic series in 2024-2025 and had so much fun he signed up to do it again.

"I loved my first few races with Track Shack, and when I learned there was a whole series, I wanted to challenge myself," Tom says. That challenge has paid off well beyond the finish line. Three years ago, Tom was overweight and unhappy with himself. Since then, he's lost over 60 pounds, started competing in triathlons, and keeps looking for new ways to push his limits.

His standout moment came at the 2024 Winter Park Road Race, his first-ever 10K. Watching other runners take on the Distance Dare, he remembers thinking, "I'm not ready for both." But the moment he crossed the finish line: "Yeah, I'm ready, let's do it next year!"

Now, the Running Series is something Tom looks forward to every year. "I love the races, the creative designs for shirts and medals, and how professionally everything is run!"

Laura's Journey: Finding Motivation Through Running

For Laura Tomlin, being a Fanatic is about more than completing races. After five years in the Track Shack Running Series, each event continues to provide the motivation, community, and excitement that keep her coming back.

Running has become an important part of Laura's life, supporting both her physical and mental well-being while connecting her with a community she now considers family. "My friends are now my family," she shared.

For Laura, success isn't always measured by a finish time. Sometimes it's running with a friend she hasn't seen in years. Other times it's encouraging a family member to join her at the starting line. The goals may change from race to race, but they always provide a reason to get moving.

"I like to plan my races six months to a year out," Laura said. "Every race that I do is just practice for the next one."

Rochelle, Amber, and Lisa's First Year as Fanatics: A Commitment to Themselves

For Rochelle, Amber, and Lisa, signing up for the Running Series Fanatic became about more than medals and miles. The series helped spark meaningful lifestyle changes, from improving fitness to breaking out of sedentary routines.

Taking on six races across varying distances brought a strong sense of accomplishment. Even when a few races became virtual, they stayed committed to crossing every finish line together.

“You’re given one body in life,” Rochelle explained. “Taking care of yourself is a commitment to yourself.”

What keeps them coming back is the camaraderie found at every event. “There’s nothing like Track Shack Fanatics,” they shared. “The people, the energy, the crew cheering you on. They make you want to come back and do the next one.”

After completing their first season as Fanatics, the trio has one message for anyone thinking about getting started: “Get involved, get active, get moving. Register for the series. It’s fun. You’ll love it.”