Oakley Signs On as Title Sponsor of NYRR’s New York Mini 10K
New York, May 8, 2013—New York Road Runners today announced a two-year partnership agreement with Oakley, Inc., under which Oakley becomes the official eyewear sponsor and apparel provider of the Oakley New York Mini 10K. The event, which will take place on Saturday, June 8, is the world’s original women-only road race.
The New York Mini 10K has a rich history celebrating women’s running and the strength of women for more than 40 years. About 5,000 women are expected to participate in the Oakley New York Mini 10K, which will start in Columbus Circle on Central Park West at 61st Street and finish on West Drive at 67th Street. The field includes runners of all abilities, from some of world’s fastest female runners to first-timers. Past champions include Deena Kastor, Grete Waitz, and Lornah Kiplagat.
“We are excited about this partnership; it gives us a platform on which to communicate directly with runners about the importance of protecting their eyes,” said Greg Welch, a triathlon World Champion and Hall of Famer, now Global Sports Marketing Manager for Oakley.
Oakley’s partnership with NYRR will further empower women to live active and healthy lifestyles through Oakley’s “ Made for More” marketing campaign. Oakley is expanding its performance training apparel for women, which features technologies such as UV and antibacterial protection, moisture management, and fabrics that are engineered to move. “Made for More” will be launched around the Oakley New York Mini 10K to connect with women who want more out of life, and the products will be incorporated into the race’s advertising and promotion.
“Oakley and NYRR share a powerful commitment to women’s running and a passion for a healthy, active lifestyle,” said Mary Wittenberg, president and CEO of New York Road Runners. “This is a terrific way for Oakley to engage with our welcoming community of female runners and to share their exciting female training lines. We’re thrilled to welcome Oakley as a sponsor of the Mini and a partner to other NYRR events throughout the year.”
Oakley will have a prominent race-day presence from start to finish, including a post-race hospitality event at the flagship Oakley store in SoHo, located at 113 Prince Street. All participants will receive a special Oakley performance shirt, so that they can experience Oakley clothing first-hand.
As part of the agreement, Oakley also becomes a promotional and eyewear partner for the ING New York City Marathon and the NYC Half. Oakley plans to sell NYRR– and ING New York City Marathon–branded eyewear in Oakley stores later this year.