MEET THE STAFF

Melissa leads the charge at True Grit Running Company, combining her love for running with a passion for supporting the local running community. She first got into running when a college roommate encouraged her to sign up for a 5K, and she hasn’t stopped since! Her favorite race memory is the Wineglass Half Marathon in Corning, NY, and she swears by her Mizuno Neo Zens. When she’s not running, Melissa enjoys following Green Bay Packers football, reading, listening to podcasts, and introducing her high school and college employees to old movies. Her best advice? “Do not overlook the value that regular stretching and regular strength training can provide.  Flexibility and strength are so important as we age and can help so much with our functional fitness.”

Lorri brings a wealth of experience to True Grit Running Company, both as a seasoned runner and as someone dedicated to helping customers find solutions for foot pain and performance. She was a standout runner in high school, winning an All-City Track Meet, and later rediscovered her passion for the sport through the Women Run Arkansas program. Her favorite race is the Route 66 Half Marathon, and she loves the community spirit of running. When she’s not at the store, you’ll find her watching CSI & Law & Order SVU or traveling to new places. Her advice? “Never give up! Just do the best you can and don’t worry about anybody else!”

Inspired by his late grandfather, a former marathoner, he started running in 2011 and has since built an impressive career, with his most memorable race being the 2019 Dallas Half Marathon, where he took the win and landed his first post-race interview. His go-to shoe is the Mizuno Neo Zen, and he never runs without his Garmin watch or Feetures socks. When he’s not running, Drew enjoys spending time with his wife and two boys or playing basketball. His best advice? “Consistency is key! You have to put the work in day after day, week after week, if you want to see progress.” His favorite local running spot is the Riverfront Trail, and post-run, he keeps it simple with granola bars and water—because life as a dad of two keeps things busy!

Lakeya has been a runner since 3rd grade and loves helping customers find the perfect shoes to meet their needs. Her favorite race is the Survivors Challenge in Fort Smith, and she currently runs in the Mizuno Wave Inspire 21. Outside of running, you’ll find her gaming listening to Doja Cat. Her go-to post-run snack is a peanut butter sandwich, and her best advice for runners is, “Take your time. If you need to walk while running do it. Allow yourself mental space while running also. Take it easy on yourself and your body. Running is a mind and body activity.”

Josh loves the work environment at True Grit Running Company and the opportunity to help the local running community. He first got into running in junior high to be part of a team and has been hooked ever since. His preferred running shoes are the Diadora Gara Carbon. One of his most memorable races was the Houston Half Marathon in 2023, where the incredible community support made for an unforgettable experience. His must-have running gear? OS1st Thin Air Performance Socks. Outside of running, Josh enjoys watching sports and playing video games. His best running tip? “Be consistent—it’s not about your pace, just get the miles in!”

Evan is passionate about helping people feel comfortable in their shoes—whether that means finding the right fit for everyday life or supporting them in reaching their running goals. He started cross country in junior high and has ran since! His favorite race memory is his senior year at the state cross country meet, where his team took home their first-ever state title. Evan’s current go-to shoe is the Mizuno Neo Zen, and he never runs without his Garmin watch and Mizuno Breath Thermo Gloves. When he’s not running, he enjoys camping, mountain biking, and Boy Scouts. His advice? “It’s never too late to start, and it only gets easier!”

Angel loves that his job at True Grit Running Company revolves around what he does every single day—running. Inspired by his older sister and a great coach, he fell in love with the sport and went on to help his team win state runner-up at the state meet. His must-have running gear? A great pair of shorts. Outside of running, Angel enjoys lifting, reading, and spending time with family. He’s also a big fan of cooking whenever he has the time. His best running tip? “Stay consistent!”

Westin loves meeting new people and helping them find the right gear at True Grit Running Company. He started running in 7th grade thanks to a friend’s encouragement and has been hooked ever since. His favorite race is Thrill of the Hill 2024, and he currently runs in the Diadora Frequenza. When he’s not running, he enjoys listening to Christian rap, hanging out with friends, and watching football. His life motto? “Don’t let other people get in the way of being YOU.”