Sport it Port - Keeping Port Stanley Active

Sport in Port began as a community organization and local running group in Port Stanley. In 2011 the group began to host events such as “Sport on the Water” a triathlon designed to bring athletes into Port Stanley. When the group’s founder Eric Salin left the corporate world in March of 2013 he decided to pursue his passion for active living by transforming Sport in Port into a business. Salin sought the expertise and support of the Ontario Self-Employment Benefits Program offered through the Elgin Business Resource Centre and was able to open Sport in Port at 204 Carlow Rd. Port Stanley in November 2013 and an additional location in Bayfield in 2014.

The Port Stanley store, located at the cross roads of four cycling trails, aims to outfit area visitors and residents with the accessories they need to stay active. The store differentiates itself from other sports outfitters by carrying unique products and apparel that can't be purchased anywhere else locally. Salin puts a great deal of effort into researching the products he carries in his store. From replacement equipment for cyclists to running gear to cottage accessories, everything in the store is tested and proven to be high quality and suited for activities in the Port Stanley area. A particularly unique and extremely popular product is the Cocoon Hammock, a tent like hammock that hangs either from a tree or on a frame and is a great place to relax on a hot summer day.

In addition to unique retail products, Sport in Port also provides several services including bike repair, running shoe fittings, coaching services, information about area trails and bike routes and equipment rentals. Salin believes that rental is a powerful way to make sport accessible for everyone. Expensive gear and limited storage space are barriers that people must overcome when trying a new sport – rentals take away this risk allowing for a low cost trial of the activity. 
This summer, for the first time, Sport in Port will be offering kayaks and stand up paddle board rentals right on the main beach in Port Stanley. These equipment rentals have been greatly anticipated and fill a long standing void in the area. Visitors to the area can also make rental reservations in advance online at www.sportinport.ca. 

Sport and Port is not only a retail location, but an activity driver as well. The store is host to weekly running, hiking and cycling groups; frequent charity runs; and Red Cross CPR and first-aid training courses.

Salin believes that Elgin County and Port Stanley in particular, is the perfect place for his business to thrive promoting relaxation, interaction with the natural environment and healthy living.

"You can swim, run and bike here," says Salin. "Port Stanley has some of the most beautiful terrain for running and cycling and the open water swimming is great too!"