Looking back on those early days, Kimberly remembers the fear and uncertainty that came with taking such a big leap. One of the very first inventory purchases — a $500 order of Timex watches — felt enormous for the tiny shop just getting started. In those days, her young son Gavin would often nap in the back room while she worked tirelessly to build the business. Today, Gavin stands 6’1”, serving as a reminder of just how much time, dedication, and life have grown alongside the store.

Over the past two decades, Dash Sports has become more than just a retail shop. Kimberly credits the many incredible employees who helped shape the business into what it is today, along with the countless customers who became lifelong friends along the way.

The journey was filled with long nights rearranging merchandise to maximize every inch of space, counting inventory, learning new systems, adapting to evolving technology, and constantly striving to improve. Through every challenge, Kimberly remained committed to creating a welcoming and trusted place for runners, walkers, and athletes alike.

One particularly meaningful moment came at 5 am on October 10, 2024, when Kimberly sat at her kitchen table sketching and measuring fixtures for the new Winter Garden location — a dream milestone for any retail store owner.

Despite the hard work and sleepless nights, Kimberly says she would not trade the experience for anything.

The business, she shared, gave her the opportunity to live the life she always wanted — balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship while building a career she truly loves.

Kimberly also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the customers who have supported Dash Sports throughout the years by trusting the team with their feet, fitness goals, and continued loyalty. She says there is still joy in opening new inventory, helping customers find the perfect shoes, and working alongside a dedicated team each day.

Most importantly, Kimberly credits her faith for guiding her path over the last 20 years and for continuing to bless the work that brings her such fulfillment.

With gratitude for the past and excitement for the future, Dash Sports now looks ahead to the next 20 years of serving the community

The post Dash Sports Celebrates 20 Years of Growth, Gratitude, and Community appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

With over 3,500 square feet of retail space, Dash Sports will carry running and walking shoe brands, along with everything needed to stay fit and Live Actively. A massage therapy room will also be available to help you recover and stay at your best.

Kimberly Grogan, owner of Dash Sports thanked patrons stating, “We couldn’t have made this exciting step without the support of amazing customers like you. Thank you for helping us grow! We’ll continue to offer the same 5-star experience at our Clermont store, but if you’re closer to Winter Garden, we can’t wait to welcome you there too”.

Below is a link to click on and upload a photo (or two) showing how you Live Actively.  A customer photo collage will be set up in the new store with all of the images.  

Click here to upload your photos: https://forms.gle/KZSJZc2xgSnT6deS9

Kimberly stated, “From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank every one of you for your incredible support over the years. It’s because of our loyal customers that we’re able to continue growing and doing what we love—helping you live an active and healthy life. I’m beyond excited for what’s to come, and I can’t wait to see you at our new Winter Garden location in 2025. Thank you for being part of the Dash Sports family, and I look forward to serving you for many more years to come”. 

To learn more, visit the website – DASH SPORTS. 

The post After More Than 18 Years Of Serving The Clermont Community, Dash Sports Is Opening A Second Store! appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

Kimberly and Kevin Grogan opened Gear for Multisport in 2006 at the National Training Center with a goal to help customers achieve their personal fitness goals and experience the pleasure of an active lifestyle. In October of 2019, the Grogans relocated to West Montrose Street to increase their retail space but also be able to offer more localized training at the Waterfront Park and other nearby running trails.  The new Dash Sports store is 1,900 square feet of retail space including room for conducting free custom shoe fittings.

As small-business owners, Kimberly and Kevin were faced with the challenges of COVID-19 this spring and had to find ways to connect with their customers virtually and keep their business alive.   “We brainstormed with other runners and decided that creating an on-line virtual “club” to encourage runners of all levels to get outside and run or walk during the beginning of quarantine,” said Kimberly Grogan. “The goal was to be a positive light during this challenging time and to help keep people moving!”  Making Lemonade out of Lemons Virtual Run Group on Facebook started on March 27, 2019, and quickly accumulated fans from across the globe.  Runners and walkers posted photos of themselves after exercising and had a community of more than 600 followers quickly encouraging them to continue.  For many, this was a lifeline to the outside world during the pandemic.  Members uploaded photos from Colorado, New York, and even the United Kingdom. This on-line group continues today with followers posting their fitness goals, personal milestones, and friendly encouragement.  Posts by Clermont’s Chief Broadway are a group favorite.

Being able to sell during the pandemic was also a priority for Dash Sports. Kimberly ramped up the on-line shopping options on the website and provided local delivery, shipping, and even curbside concierge service to customers.  As the COVID restrictions lessened, the store was classified as “essential” so customers could once again shop in-store.

These days, Kimberly is focused on growing Dash Sports’ customer base.  “Getting our name out to people outside Clermont is a priority. We want runners in Winter Garden and Southwest Orlando to know they have options nearby.” Kimberly has also recently accepted the position of President of the Clermont Downtown Partnership (CDP).  “It’s important for small businesses to partner to increase traffic to downtown and to our individual stores and restaurants. It’s imperative that we have a strategic plan, good communication and function as a group to improve downtown Clermont. We have so many new businesses that have opened recently and we want to encourage the community to get out and support them.”

The post In Celebration Of National Women’s Small Business Month, This Week The Business Spotlight Shines On Kimberly Grogan, Dash Sports appeared first on South Lake Tablet.