The infiltration of Oro Valley (by sporting good stores that is)

Oro Valley has gone from having none to soon being bombarded with sporting good stores. Recently a Sports Authority and a Big 5 sporting goods opened in Oro Valley, and by next year we'll also be seeing a Dick's Sporting Goods at the new Oro Valley Marketplace. One of the things I've always liked about Oro Valley is the small town feel on a slightly more upscale note. When it comes to sporting good stores, we have our specialty store for athletic wear and shoes, All About Running and Walking. Even though there's going to be more selection at bigger stores, this particular business will continue to have a faithful following as they specialize in customer service and they're very involved in the running community. Still many Oro Valley residents are worried about the impact these bigger stores will have on our local independent businesses as well as the Oro Valley community.

Oro Valley is an extremely active community. The main thoroughfare of Rancho Vistoso Blvd is perfect for running, walking and cycling. There's even a few races that are held in or make their way through the Oro Valley area, like the El Tour de Tucson bike race, which is coming up in about 2 weeks, and the Holualoa marathon and half marathon which takes place December 1. Still, with all the additions of sporting good shops recently, I'm beginning to wonder if someone is trying to tell us we're not active enough!