Find Your Sole-Mate!

Are you ready to meet your perfect match in the running community?

Join us for Sole Mate at Second Sole—a fun, speed-dating-inspired event designed to help runners of all levels connect with local experts, resources, and fellow enthusiasts to elevate their running journey!

What to Expect?

  • Connect With the Experts
    Meet the area’s running experts! Learn about upcoming races, injury prevention and recovery strategies, training for runners, nutrition tips, and MORE!
  • Speed Date the Pros
    Spend 5-minutes with the pros and learn how they can support your running goals. This is your chance to ask questions, share your challenges, and receive advice based on YOUR needs.
  • Prizes, Raffles & Gifts
    It’s not a Second Sole event without amazing perks! Attend the event and take home exclusive swag bags, enjoy special in-store discounts, and get the chance to win raffle prizes including running gear and gift cards!
  • Plus Drinks & Desserts!

Who Should Attend?

This workshop will equip you with:

  • New runners looking to kickstart their journey with expert guidance.
  • Experienced runners seeking to fine-tune their performance.
  • Community seekers eager to join local running groups and meet fellow runners.

Your perfect match in the running community is waiting for you!

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with the best. We can’t wait to see you there!

Event Details

📅 Date: Thursday, February 13, 2025
Time: 6:00-8:00 PM
📍 Location: Second Sole |  755 Boardman-Canfield Rd, Youngstown, OH 44512
🎟️ Cost: Free

Space is limited, so secure your spot today!

Meet Your Sole-Mates

Get to know the experts who will be sharing their knowledge and helping you take your running to the next level! Each of our presenters brings a unique specialty – from race planning and injury prevention to nutrition and gear. Check out their bios below and come ready with your questions!

Mark has been a running expert at Second Sole since 2007, helping runners find the perfect gear to support their training and racing. At Sole Mate, he'll be sharing insight on must-have gear and accessories, from shoes and insoles to GPS watches and recovery tools - everything you need to train smarter and race stronger.

Beyond the gear, Mark is deeply involved in the local running scene. Whether you're gearing up for your next race or just want to make sure your equipment is working for you, Mark is the go-to expert!

Second Sole staff help runners find the perfect footwear for their unique needs. At Sole Mate, they'll be breaking down footwear recommendations based on injury patterns, terrain, race goals, and distance,  as well as how to choose the right shoes for different speeds and training sessions - from easy runs to speed workouts and race day.

With years of experience fitting runners of all levels, the Team Staff understand that the right shoe can make all the difference - whether you're tackling your first 5K or training for a marathon. If you have questions about stability, cushioning, race-day shoes, or everyday trainers, Second Sole staff are here to guide you to your perfect fit!

Dr. Caitlin Sapp is a physical therapist and owner of Crew Physical Therapy, specializing in keeping runners strong, injury-free, and performing at their best. At Sole Mate, she'll be covering common running injuries, how to prevent them, and what to do if you're sidelined by pain.

With a deep understanding of training loads, rehab, and performance, Caitlin takes a holistic approach to injury prevention and recovery, helping runners build resilience and stay on the road. If you've ever dealt with an injury or want to make 2025 your healthiest, strongest running year yet, Caitlin is here to help!

Sarah is a dedicated and accomplished runner with deep roots in the local running community. As a passionate advocate for the sport, she brings both personal experience and expert knowledge to help runners fuel smarter and perform better. At Sole Mate, she'll be discussing nutrition products and supplements, breaking down what works, what doesn't, and how to optimize your fueling strategy for training, racing, and recovery.

Sarah is well-connected in the running scene and understands the needs of athletes at every level. Whether you're curious about electrolytes, gels, or recovery supplements, Sarah is here to help you navigate the best options for your goals!

Heather is a registered dietitian passionate about helping people fuel their bodies for health, performance, and longevity. At Sole Mate, she'll be sharing expert nutrition insights for runners - from optimizing training fuel to race-day strategies and everyday nutrition for recovery and endurance.

Heather understands the importance of building strong, sustainable habits at every stage of life. She believes that food is fuel, and her approach cuts through the noise of diet culture to help runners feel and perform their best. Whether you're training for a race or are just looking to improve your daily nutrition, Heather is here to guide you!

Dr. Nicole is the President of the Youngstown Marathon Board and an advocate for the local running community. At Sole Mate, she'll share exciting updates about the Youngstown Half-Marathon & 2-Miler, happening on June 1, 2025 - including new event changes and way to get involved.

Outside of running, Dr. Ranttila is a licensed psychologist in Youngstown, specializing in the assessment and treatment of depression, anxiety, autism, and family dynamics across all ages. Come chat with Nicole to learn how you can be part of one of Youngstown's premier races!

Candace is not only a Boston Marathon Qualifier and accomplished runner, but also a community champion who loves bringing people together through the Second Sole Run Group. At Sole Mate, Candace will be sharing how the run group builds strong connections and supports runners of all levels, helping everyone feel like part of a team.

As the Grant Manager / Panerathon Coordinator, Candace knows the power of community support. She has completed eight marathons and countless half marathons, and she's passionate about fostering a welcoming environment for runners of all abilities. Come learn more about how the Second Sole Run Group can provide you with the community, motivation, and support you need to reach your goals!