Run-4 Mission Statement
My Name is Shane, and I started Run-4 in the summer of 2024 with the goal of building a running brand that raises awareness and gives back to causes that I believe in. With Run-4, I believe that running is not just exercise—it’s a powerful form of medicine for both the mind and the body, and a meaningful way to build connection and community.
The mission of Run-4 is to empower athletes of all abilities, raise awareness for mental health, and foster a sense of community where resilience, strength, and hope are celebrated. Run-4 is more than just running clothing; it’s a movement to remind the world that the fight for mental health awareness and accessibility in sport is ongoing—and together, we can take every stride towards a healthier, more supportive future for everyone.
Featured collection Run-4 Kayleigh
Join us in celebrating Kayleigh's 2024 NYC Marathon finish with her signature shirt based on what she wore in the race!
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Kayleigh's Run-4 All Abilities NYC Marathon Race Kit Unisex Long Sleeve Tee Vol 1
Vendor:Regular price $45.00 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
Kayleigh's Run-4 All Abilities NYC Marathon Race Kit Unisex Long Sleeve Vol 2
Vendor:Regular price $45.00 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
Kayleigh's Run-4 All Abilities NYC Marathon Race Kit Unisex t-shirt Vol 1
Vendor:Regular price $30.00 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
Kayleigh's Run-4 All Abilities NYC Marathon Race Kit Unisex t-shirt Vol 2
Vendor:Regular price $30.00 USDRegular priceUnit price / per -
Kayleigh's Run-4 All Abilities NYC Marathon Race Kit Women's Racerback Tank
Vendor:Regular price $30.00 USDRegular priceUnit price / per
Kayleigh's NYC Marathon Finish!
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Meaning behind the semicolon
The semicolon (;) has become a powerful symbol in the mental health community, representing hope, resilience, and the ongoing struggle with mental health challenges, particularly suicide prevention. The symbol's significance lies in its use in writing, where a semicolon is employed to connect two independent clauses—rather than ending a sentence. In the context of mental health, it signifies a decision to continue one's life rather than end it, despite facing struggles or difficult times.
Why I started Run-4
My name is Shane, and I’m a part-time Exercise Physiology instructor at the college level, as well as a full-time stay-at-home dad to two amazing little girls. Running has been a defining part of my life ever since I joined my high school track team in 2009. That passion carried me through college, where I became a Division II All-American, and led me to compete post-collegiately in Austin, Texas. After two years of racing, I transitioned into coaching at the collegiate level, spending seven years coaching at two different universities.Over the past 15 years, running has been intertwined with a series of life-changing experiences. As both a student-athlete and a coach, I've faced the heartbreaking loss of teammates and athletes to suicide. Mental health is a growing crisis, particularly among youth, and I believe social media has only amplified these challenges. Through Run-4, my goal is to raise awareness and provide support for communities experiencing mental health crises—particularly student-athletes and veterans.Another pivotal moment in my life came while I was living in Austin and working at a physical therapy clinic. There, I met a woman with Down syndrome who had just started running—her name is Kayleigh Williamson. Since that first meeting in 2016, Kayleigh has completed more than 20 half marathons and three full marathons. I’ve had the privilege of running alongside her and her mom, guiding her through both her first half marathon and her first full marathon.Witnessing Kayleigh’s journey has shown me firsthand how running can transform lives. Beyond the physical benefits, running has provided Kayleigh with a sense of community and social connection that many people with disabilities—both mental and physical—often miss out on. Too many people with disabilities feel isolated or excluded from experiences like youth sports, and my goal with Run-4 is to help break down these barriers. I want to challenge the stigma around disabled athletes and create more access to athletics through running.Ultimately, I believe running is more than just a sport—it’s a powerful tool for healing, both mentally and physically, and it connects people from all walks of life. Through Run-4, I hope to inspire others to embrace the power of movement, community, and inclusion.