Local business owner runs from London to Paris, completes 50 miles around Peterborough and welcomes new brands in store
By Evie Payne
23rd Jun 2023 | Local News
Bog Dog Running is a family-run business providing gear to runners and sporting-enthusiasts across Rutland and Stamford, from beginners to pros.
Run by Laura Bailey, Bog Dog Running Gear is a hidden gem located just off Ryhall Road, stocking a huge range of sporting equipment including clothing, bats and rackets, balls and bibs, and - of course - running gear.
The shop was set up 2 years ago by Laura, who has been working for herself since she was only 18.
Bog Dog owner, Laura, said: "I have been working for myself since I was 18 and have always been passionate about working in an environment that I had a real zest for – something I like to do in my spare time," she laughed, "or my not-very-much spare time!"
Laura said: "Running offers so much mental freedom, a great challenge, helps me get the dogs out, and has allowed me to befriend some lovely people – runners on the whole tend to be very open people who like to get you involved in their running world. It is a pleasure to supply kit to people who are vivacious and are as passionate about their gear as I am."
It also means that Laura gets to try loads of cool trainers, ultimately enabling her to help her customers pick the best gear for them, tried and tested by the in-store team.
When Laura isn't busy running the popular store, she can be found out and about completing daily training runs and competing in a range of events.
Recently, she hosted her own running event at Grimsthorpe Castle, The Grim Reaper. The event was incredibly successful and saw participants from across the country converge to take part in the scenic but sweaty ultra marathon.
However, Laura did not compete in this mammoth event, as she was running from London to France the very next week, and needed to give her legs the best chance possible to carry her all the way!
Laura and 4 other runners from the popular local running group Stamford Striders, ran from Wimbledon to Paris to raise funds for Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) and Parkinson's UK.
Not only did they have to run a half-marathon every day between 25 and 28 May, but they also camped out overnight throughout the challenge.
Laura said: "This was the most fun thing ever! Jolly hard work but as a team, we rocked it and we are all thoroughly missing the camaraderie of the days!
"The running was the easy bit - the lack of sleep was the toughest!
"It was all for a great cause though, as one of our running team is ex-military, and two have experienced Parkinson's within the family."
Sleeping on ferries and in tents was not an experience Laura favoured, but she sucked it up and cracked on.
She concluded: "We arrived at the Eiffel Towel second only to an all mans team of whippet-like chaps. We were very proud to be second home to those athletes!"
To boost their fundraising, the team held a quiz night March at Stamford Town Cricket Club on Uffington Road.
The team has raised well over £2,600 and came an impressive 2nd place out of 32 teams, which they were delighted with.
Since then, Laura has also taken part in The Green Wheel Relay, which took place on 11 June in Peterborough.
The relay is a seven stage race starting and finishing at The Athletics Arena, Bishops Road, Peterborough. The total distance is Fifty miles and follows the outline of the Green Wheel.
The Green Wheel cycle route provides over 45 miles of continuous sustainable routes around the city of Peterborough. Opening in 2000, it was one of the first large scale projects delivered by Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT). Although aimed at Cyclists the route is equally good for running.
Laura from Bog Dog joined the Stamford Striders Ladies A team and they ran to victory in the Ladies Senior category.
Laura said: "We were chuffed to do so well. It was a super hot day, but yet again another amazing team event which draws 40+ teams from the surrounding area of Peterborough."
Laura isn't only enjoying personal successes, but business ones too, and has recently introduced even more brand-new stock to her comprehensive local store.
The much-anticipated and highly-requested Brooks brand is now available at the Gwash Way shop.
Laura said: "Looking to buy running shoes? Whether you're a long-time runner or new to the sport, find road and trail-running shoes you'll love with Brooks and more brands in store. We've got the running trainers you need: supportive running shoes, lightweight running shoes and more, and we can help you find the perfect fit."
You can find Laura at Bog Dog in Gwash Way, where she provides support to those looking to get into running, experienced athletes, and fellow trail runners.
The team also offer a unique 'gait analysis' service hosted by Arion. Using sensors on insoles inside your trainers, Laura can analyse your individual running style, feedback on your needs, and help you select the perfect pair for trainers.
This service lasts for 45 minutes to 1 hour and allows users to test multiple pairs of trainers – and unlocks a discount on shoes when you buy in store.
On top of Arion, the store stocks major brands, from Saucony, Hoka, Montane, Maurten and more.
Laura added: "Brooks is another brand coming to the store soon, as per request from our regulars, and a brand I have come to know many people love.
"People like to see that people selling the gear are involved in running, because we have a real understanding, we know the pitfalls and gains.
I think running keeps people sane! Had a bad day? Go for a run. Had a good day? Go for a run. Whether you are new to the sport, or more experienced than us, we can help you out."
If you know what you are looking for, the team also offer an online service, including same day dispatch on orders made before 2pm Monday to Friday, and free delivery on items over £75.
Laura concluded: "We are a local, service-led industry, family-run by people who care, and I can't wait to welcome more runners and athletes to the Bog Dog family, in store and online."
Find the store at:
Unit 41
Gwash Way
Ryhall Rd Industrial Estate
Stamford
PE9 1XP
Their opening hours are:
Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5:00pm
Saturday 8:30am - 4:00pm
Find them online, on Facebook and Instagram.
Alternatively, get in touch by calling 01780 239042 or via email at [email protected].
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