Runners participating in the Tuesday social run heading towards UTK
Runners participating in the Tuesday social run heading towards the track

Pace House is a locally owned running store in Knoxville, Tennessee specializing in running fuel, hydration, and gear. While the right shoes get you started, proper fueling and hydration get you to the finish line—and that’s where we focus.

We’re more than just a store—we’re a community of local runners offering free weekly group runs, a welcoming place to connect before and after your runs, and a curated selection of running nutrition, hydration packs, apparel, and trail and road running gear. Whether you’re training for your first race or your next PR, we’re here to help you go the distance.

Our Services >

Founders Ethan and Julia participating in a trail race

About the Founders

Julia and Ethan

We have been supporting and supported by the Knoxville running community since 2007. Julia is a practicing veterinarian who got her DVM from UTK and Ethan is a PhD mechanical engineer working at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Julia achieved a Boston Qualifier at Snickers Marathon in 2015 and has since focused on trail ultramarathons. She has finished races such as Tahoe 50K, Yeti 55K and Javelina Jundred 100K. When not behind the counter at Pace House, you can find her at local trail races and various social runs around town.

Ethan ran collegiately at Carnegie Mellon University and since moving to Knoxville has focused on long races, winning the Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon three times, winning the USA Road 50K championship in 2014, and running a marathon personal best of 2:19:34. He has also dabbled in ultramarathons, with finishes at Badwater 135, JFK 50 Mile, Javelina Jundred 100 Mile, No Business 100, and Black Canyon 100K, among others.

Barn Creek Backyard Ultra at night

Events

We host multiple events, including the Barn Creek Backyard Ultra, Taco Bell 50K, and weekly social runs

Barn Creek Backyard Ultra >

Taco Bell 50K >

Group Runs >

  • Barn Creek Backyard Ultra
  • Co-founder Ethan enjoying a trail race.
  • Co-founder Julia enjoying a trail race.
  • Barn Creek Backyard Ultra

  • Tomek S.

    “Fantastic running store. The best staff. Very knowledgeable.”

  • Tim R.

    “Great Staff wonderful merchandise. Expert advice.”

  • Steven H.

    “Been going here for years, latest tech run gear, snacks and friendly service!”

  • Chuck A.

    “This running store is an absolute gem! From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with fantastic customer service that makes finding your next running gear a breeze. Their selection of apparel is top-notch, with an impressive array of brands like Janji and Rabbit, plus other high-quality options that are perfect for any runner. It's clear they curate their inventory with care, offering stylish and functional pieces. This is definitely a must visit when you are in Knoxville!”

  • J. Barnes

    “This is a must visit running store. Whenever we travel from Michigan, we love to visit local running stores. This was one of our favorites. Great merchandise and amazing customer service.”

  • Patrick M.

    “Can't say enough good things about The Long Run. Store Owners are very inviting and helpful, for any and every questions you have about running and running attire/footwear. Prices were great, on all products. Overall, left the store very pleased, and looking forward to returning for further business. Thankyou again, Julia and Ethan!”

  • Latia B.

    “It's so informative and kind! Helped me with tips on my leg shin pain and pointers on resting and healing. Great place. Go check them out.”