Finding his right fit

SANDUSKY — Sick of sporting other companies' brands, Kyle Harvey decided to just do it. And, by "it," he means launching his own fitness-inspired apparel company, known as Rack Runners, founded in 2017. The longtime Sandusky resident and 2004 Perkins High School graduate readily admits he "started the business by accident." "All of the popular brands were boring," said Harvey, a father of five — Jamir, Santino, Liam, Jo'siah and Lyric — who today lives in northern Virginia near Washington, D.C., with his wife, Keara. "Noticing that, I decided to take a few of my favorite things — hip-hop, being a foodie and the love for fitness quotes — and make them stylish enough to wear in and out of the gym," he said. Harvey fully immerses himself into the world of fitness and nutrition. For starters, he earned an associate's degree in health science and still attends school today, seeking a bachelor's in nutrition and tactical fitness. He honed in a health-first mindset while in the military. Enlisting in 2012, Harvey learned how to stay in peak physical condition while serving overseas, in South Korea, where he oversaw medical readiness for his artillery unit. The unit "was responsible for air defense against foreign threats," Harvey said. "After Korea, I came back to the states and switched my job from a medic to a radiology technician." Rack Runners combines Harvey's physical, educational and spiritual beliefs with messages on its products, ranging from shirts, tank tops, shorts and various workout accessories. "It is a selective tribe," said Harvey, who designs these products himself. "It is for the people who enjoy great designs, hip-hop-inspired, foodie-inspired, quote-inspired. I basically create streetwear concepts and bring distinctive and creative artwork into fitness." While he lives more than 400 miles away from Sandusky, Harvey still recalls and relies upon his roots, setting a necessary foundation for personal success. "From Sandusky, I learned that it's all about what you go out and get," said Harvey, labeling Johnnie Sloan, who ran the former Hourglass Boxing Club in downtown, as a major life influence. "The family aspect of the boxing club is how I run Rack Runners: Every customer is an extended family member, and I pride myself on taking care of my family." Blake Harris, a city commissioner, considers Harvey not only a friend but also a shining representation of Sandusky. Among Harvey's greatest traits, as told by Harris, include his positivity and willingness, which help support others to follow their dreams as well. "He possesses authenticity matched with a pure desire to want to see everyone win," Harris added. "From the personal training to the trendy apparel line, or by sharing others' dreams (on social media), it's obvious his mission is to uplift and encourage as many people as he can, and this is something you can never have enough of."