2025 Running Specialty Hall of Fame Inductees

The Running Industry Association (RIA) celebrated the induction of Hugh Gaither from Feetures, and Ellen and Ed Griffin from Fleet Feet Syracuse at their annual RIA members conference, hosted this year in Atlanta, GA.

“I am humbled and honored to be inducted into the Running Industry Hall of Fame. Working in the running industry over the last 23 years has been a very special experience, and I cherish all the friendships made during that time,” shared Gaither. Gaither founded Feetures in 2002 with his two sons John and Joe and spent 20 years traveling the country to meet with run specialty owners and buyers to advocate for the value of the performance sock category. Gaither also served a three year term on the RIA Board. Since 2003, he has acted as Chairman of Feetures.

“We wouldn’t be here without our team and community partners in Syracuse, Fleet Feet, our suppliers and many of the great running business owners who are members of the RIA,” expressed Ed. He and Ellen started Fleet Feet Syracuse in 2000 and opened a second location in 2013. The Fleet Feet Syracuse team introduced several innovations that gained industry-wide acceptance including their customer rewards program, a full-time medical and corporate marketing position, community rooms, and return on investment reports for supplier partners.

Gaither and the Griffins were honored during a Hall of Fame ceremony led by RIA Executive Director Terry Schalow and 2023 Hall of Fame Member Mark Sullivan at the RIA Summit.

About the Running Specialty Hall of Fame (RSHOF)

Each year the Running Industry Association recognizes individuals who have contributed to the run specialty channel in some significant way. The RSHOF committee, consisting of past inductees and current industry professionals, reviews nominations and selects recipients each of the three Hall of Fame categories: Retail, Brand, and Industry Influencer. Note that there was no Industry Influencer recipient for 2025. Candidates must have a minimum of 20 years being directly involved with the run specialty channel.

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