Owens Ski & Sport to Close, Relocate

After 10 years at the Village at Waugh Chapel, Owens Ski & Sport will close their doors at the end of July, but the store will reopen with a new owner about a half mile away in mid-August.

Owens sells ski, snowboard, skateboard, wakeboard and waterski supplies, and the Gambrills store is one of two locations owned by Jim Owens.

“We’re continuing to mark things down this month as we go along, but it’s not a total desperation situation,” said Owens, referring to the store's merchandise.

Much of what they don’t sell will be transferred to Waldorf, where Owens owns and runs a second store. Owens has decided to retire after 35 years in the ski and sport equipment retail business, hence the store’s impending closure. The lease at the Village at Waugh Chapel location expires on July 31, so Owens decided it was a good time.

However, ski and skateboard enthusiasts need not fear a lack of retail options, because Owens sold the business to current employee Ian Humphery.

Humphery’s father worked in ski shops growing up, and he has always wanted to own his own store. When Owens decided to close down and sell his business, Humphery saw it as an opportunity.

“My business partner and I realized there is a need for this type of store in the area so we stepped up to make it happen,” said Humphery.

The new Owens Ski & Sport will be located at 750 Route 3 South, Suite 2A, in Gambrills, less than half a mile from the current location. Humphery hopes to have the new store location open by mid-August.

Owens will keep the Wadorf location open for the time being, but he eventually plans to close that store as well so he can fully retire.