The Run Gum & Company Story

People Matter. Performance Matters

In the fall of 2002, Run Gum co-founder Nick Symmonds began his studies at Willamette University in the field of biochemistry. When Nick wasn't in class or the lab, he was running miles as part of the cross country and track and field teams. It was on the track that Nick met Run Gum's other co-founder, Coach Sam Lapray and a dynamic partnership was formed.

This partnership would go on to win 7 Division III NCAA Titles, 6 USATF Outdoor National Titles, and make two Olympic teams (Beijing 2008, London 2012). Always searching for the extra tenth of a second that could separate winning from losing, they experimented with non-banned performance-enhancing stimulants. Pulling from Nick's biochemistry background and experience in training and competition, they knew what chemicals the human body needed to perform optimally. Among these was the world’s most consumed stimulant, CAFFEINE.

Nick and Sam found that the current methods of delivering these important stimulants to the body often required drinking large quantities of liquid in the form of coffee or energy drinks. To achieve optimal performance, they needed to eliminate the water, acid and slow absorption. They wanted a product that could perform as well and as fast as Nick.

It was on the track during one of their many training sessions together that the idea came to them. GUM. Utilizing chewing gum as the delivery vehicle for stimulants to the human body allowed for faster uptake through sublingual absorption. Furthermore, this lightweight, zero calorie option would allow an athlete to run free without the unwanted liquids around in their stomachs. Truly, the smarter caffeine kick had been found.

They launched Run Gum because they truly believe that people matter and their performance matters, both in sport and in life.  They hope they can show this with the products they create, the inspiration they provide and the support to athletes of all levels.