Our Story

OUR STORY

Tryathletics has been a destination for runners, bikers and swimmers in Columbia since we first opened in 1986. Our owner, Steve Stonecipher-Fisher, has been a runner for more than 40 years, and it was his passion for and experience in the sport that led him to open the store. Tryathletics is dedicating to providing the most knowledgeable, personalized service to each and every athlete who comes through our doors.

It’s our commitment to service that sets us apart as the most experienced and trustworthy team in Columbia. Our team at Tryathletics knows, loves and uses everything we sell, and we believe our customers should be having as much fun as us. We support healthy, active lifestyles facilitated by the highest quality of gear suiting the unique needs of individuals, and we only carry brands we personally trust.

MEET THE STAFF

Steve Stonecipher-Fisher

Steve opened Tryathletics in 1986. He was a competitive runner for over 40 years, and it was his love of running that led him to open the shop. He wanted to ensure everyone could try athletics―hence the name Tryathletics. From 1975 to 1979, Steve ran for the University of Missouri and still loves running to this day. He is involved in many local events and serves as race director for the Show Me Games Triathlon and St. Patrick’s Day 5K, among others. Steve believes it’s important to find something you enjoy doing, and he supports race and events that are competitive, but encourage participation in a healthy lifestyle. He is married to his wife, Kim, and they have a son, Ryan.

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Nate

hails from the “Ice Cream Capital of the World,” LeMars, IA. He has over a decade of shoe fitting experience and bike knowledge, and although he won’t brag about it, his triathlon and running resume is almost as long as his facial hair. With four Ironmans, seven marathons and a USATF Long Course National Championship to his credit, Nate knows what it takes to succeed in the sport. More of a trail guy these days, you can often find him riding his Kona Wozo or running the trails at Rock Bridge State Park. The RV occasionally parked behind our store belongs to Nate, but despite much speculation and many rumors, he does, in fact, have a home besides the RV. He also has a fascination with the band Paramore.

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Josh

Josh was brought up near the banks of the mighty Mississippi, in Imperial, Missouri. He moved to Columbia in 2005 to attend Mizzou. Shortly after arriving, Josh got hooked on riding bikes and began wrenching on them as well. After graduating, he began working on bikes professionally and has been keeping wheels rolling ever since. Although you have probably seen him riding his old mountain bike around town, his favorite cycling pursuits happen off-pavement in the form of mountain biking and bike-camping. Josh will show up at a race here or there, although it is mostly just to tell jokes. When not wrenching or riding, you may find Josh relaxing on his front porch watching the birds, foraging wild edibles, or chasing live music around the country.

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Charles

Charles is your average Columbia townie. He graduated from Hickman High School and is now continuing his running career at Columbia College. When he's not "in class" you can find him riding fast (behind Will of course), climbing at COMO Rocks, or fingerboarding alone in his home. He is also a sponsored athlete. Favorite bike: Kona Big Honzo

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Will

Will (aka Wally) hails from the booming metropolis of Sedalia MO. He is the slowest rider at the shop, but that doesn't stop him from being the first person to work every day. He currently attends Mizzou, and is studying Public Health. Outside of work, Will enjoys mountain biking, hiking, and bikepacking. Favorite bike: Kona Sutra LTD

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John

John comes from somewhere in Georgia, and is the shop's professional flat fixer. He attends Mizzou, and is currently a PhD candidate in Environmental Engineering. Outside of mountain biking, John enjoys climbing, swirling test tubes at the lab, and spending time with his wife. Favorite bike: Kona Honzo ST

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Brandon

Brandon comes from Lebanon, MO, and is the shop's "weekend warrior". During the week, you can find him programming at Midway, while helping out at the shop on the weekends. He enjoys multiple forms of cycling, including MTB and gravel, and is a certified scuba diver. Favorite Bike: Otso Voytek

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Not all gear is created equal

Not all running shoes, bikes or other gear are created equal. That’s why we are picky about the products we sell, and we take an individually tailored, hands-on approach with each customer, getting to know their lifestyles, goals and physical needs. When you visit our store, you’ll know that we are investing in you as our customer and our friend, taking the time to find quality products that are perfect for you.

Learn About Our Process

Keep your gear in working condition

In addition to helping you find the right gear, we’re also committed to helping you maintain it. We’re proud to offer an on-site bike repair shop staffed by some of the most talented mechanics in town, and we strive to provide fast and safe service. Whether you’re coming in for a standard tune-up or a major repair, no problem is too big or too small and you can trust you’ll get the highest quality work at the fairest price.

Learn About Our Process