Noah Cameron to return, among other celebrations, for 10 years of Fit Republic in St. Joseph

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Around 10 years ago, Central High School graduate Austin Evans had a dream to open a business, and 2026 marks 10 years since doing so.

Where a once-longstanding business in St. Joseph stood in the shopping center off of 1300 South Belt Highway is where a Colorado-based franchise would expand off the dream of a St. Joseph local. Evans looked to bring Fit Republic to St. Joseph, giving those who wanted the chance to get in shape a place to try new supplements under low pressure and get into the lifestyle.

He feels proud to watch the center where Fit Republic operates grow, especially after Planet Fitness moved in down the sidewalk around the same time.

"It's been a ton of fun being in a business that impacts people so positively. We have people who come in and are down 30 or even 50 pounds. Many didn't know where to start," Evans shared. "Now they're off blood pressure medication they've been on for years."

Ten years in any business is no small feat; Evans feels proud that his team has built a culture that helps people in the area.

"To be in business for ten years in my hometown and have a positive impact on the community, it's been awesome," Evans said. "I'm humbled to make it ten years. Super grateful. You know, it's a long time."

A well-known customer will return to the store Saturday to join the celebration: St. Joseph's own and current Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Noah Cameron. Cameron and Evans both attended Central, and Evans said Cameron would stop by the store whenever he returned home.

"I knew he'd have Lean Kitchen meals and shop here sometimes. Getting back in touch with him and having him come to Saint Joe is really cool. He'll be home, signing autographs for loved ones and fans around here, which will be really cool."

Cameron will be at the store signing autographs on limited edition Fit Republic baseballs from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday, June 20, for those who make a $25.00 purchase. For more details about the store's 10-year anniversary celebration, visit Fit Republic of St. Joseph's Facebook page or contact the store directly.