Running Store to Open in Severna Park

A young entrepreneur is stepping—or more precisely, running—onto the Severna Park business scene as Spark Running, a specialty store, will open Nov. 1 in Park Plaza.

Caitlin Burman, 23, a May graduate of the University of Miami, and Fair Oaks resident, is putting her business savvy and degree in communications to work as she plans to envelope the community of runners that either live here or pass by—including those running along the Baltimore and Annapolis Trail.

The clever name reflects her hometown of Severna Park and the store's logo was designed by a college friend, Burman said. Running in half marathons and triathlons herself prompted Burman to "make a career out of it" by using what she calls "smart investments" to start her own business.

The business plan for the 2,000-square-foot space is to cater to runners near and far by offering sneakers, clothing, accessories and a treadmill equipped with special software to analyze the best shoe fit for ones gait.

Bringing it from products to people who love the sport, Spark will host group runs, discounts, organized runs on the Baltimore and Annapolis Trail and have a place to leave your keys in a basket upon return. Burman has already hired four staffers, two full-time and two part-time, to help her with daily operations.

Find Spark on Facebook and stay in touch there for updates.