Run Diva

Valerie Bertinelli's Fitness DVD

PRESS RELEASE

Valerie Bertinelli's Latest Role: Starring in 'Losing It and Keeping Fit!' Fitness DVD

CO-STARRING CELEBRITY TRAINER CHRISTOPHER ROSS LANE

NEW YORK, Nov. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- It's a well-known fact that Valerie Bertinelli, the screen actress and #1 NY Times bestselling author has lost over 40 pounds and has transformed her body into a toned and fit picture of health. What is less known is that she, like countless other women and men across the country, achieved her new physique by working out in her living room. Wanting to share both that experience and the fitness routine with other health-and-wellness compatriots, Valerie, along with her personal trainer Christopher Ross Lane, lead a new DVD (on-sale November 3, 2009), Losing It and Keeping Fit!.

Valerie shows by example how a personal exercise plan, in addition to a proper diet, is vital to overall well-being. According to Bertinelli (who just completed her first half-marathon in just over 2 hours), "My weight loss and fitness experience has been so positive in every way. And there are no celebrity secrets to it! If I can do it, anyone can and I'm so happy that, with Christopher, I can inspire others to get healthy and to maintain that health and wellness!"

The 60-minute workout DVD contains two full-length workouts designed to help reach one's weight loss goals and keep fit. In the 20-minute beginner's routine, "Losing it: Body Basics," the viewer will work their whole body, using just body weight. Movements will tone hips, legs, tummy and arms. This routine is accessible to everyone. When ready, the next step is the "Keeping Fit: Bikini Ready" workout. Train in only 40 minutes, with toning exercises and cardio bursts to help firm up and sculpt sexy muscles. Hand weights are used in this routine. Also included is a bonus segment called "Bikini Abs Sculpting" that works to tighten and tone the mid-section.

Bonus footage includes interviews with Valerie and Christopher. They share their thoughts on the benefits of the workout routine and their personal goals for the DVD. Christopher also shares his special training methods and tips for the person who is training at home and just starting out. Valerie discusses her weight loss and fitness journey and reveals how all of the positive changes have affected her life.

The DVD will launch on November 3, 2009, at a $14.98 SRP. Additionally, Gaiam will release a special Jenny Craig version of the DVD exclusively through Jenny Craig weight loss centers, on October 6, 2009. This Jenny Craig version will feature exclusive bonus footage, and will carry a $19.99 SRP.

"Having the blessing of Jenny Craig on the DVD adds credibility for us and provides additional value to the consumer," said Bill Sondheim, President of Gaiam. The Jenny Craig logo will appear on the packaging and a promotional coupon for a 30-Day Free Trial will be included inside the DVD for general retail release.

The DVD will be available online and in retail stores wherever DVDs are sold.

About Valerie Bertinelli: Valerie Bertinelli has been acting since the age of twelve, appearing in more than two dozen made-for-TV movies. Most recognizably, she appeared on the long running sitcom One Day at a Time and, more recently, on Touched by an Angel. Now spokesperson for Jenny Craig, Bertinelli was raised in Claymont, Delaware, and in the San Fernando Valley, California. Valerie's second book, Finding It - and Satisfying My Hunger for Life without Opening the Fridge, will be published by Simon and Schuster in October. Currently, she lives with her son, Wolfgang, in Los Angeles.

About Christopher Lane: Christopher Ross Lane has been an active part of the fitness industry for the last 10 years. He spent most of his life as an athlete and competed on the national level as a springboard diver throughout high school and college. A graduate of the University of Arizona with B.S. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Lane continued his love of sport and fitness as a coach in the U.S. and South Africa. After moving to Los Angeles in 2002, Christopher transitioned into full time personal training and in 2003, started his own private training company. Since he began, Lane has trained some of television, film and the music industries biggest names as well as solidifying a name for himself in fitness. For the last few years, Christopher has worked with Jillian Michaels as a client and as her back-up trainer on the hit show "The Biggest Loser." Christopher has also been a featured keynote speaker at conferences across the U.S. speaking on the importance and integration of fitness into your everyday lifestyle. Currently, Christopher resides in Los Angeles.

About GAIAM

Gaiam, Inc. (NASDAQ:GAIA) is the leading independent distributor of special interest programming, with a 72,000 door retail distribution network and over 10,000 store in stores. With more than 40 percent of the fitness and wellness market, Gaiam is dedicated to providing solutions for the many facets of healthy, eco-conscious living. Since its founding in 1988, Gaiam has grown into a $250 million integrated brand. The company's commitment to quality, coupled with an innovative approach to merchandising and distribution have allowed it to dominate the health and wellness category with fitness sensations Rodney Yee, Mari Winsor, Billy Blanks and The Firm. For more information about Gaiam, please visit www.gaiam.com, or call 1.800.869.3603. Website: http://www.gaiam.com/

Source: Gaiam, Inc.

CONTACT: Martha Kiley, +1-631-329-2726, mckiley@optonline.net, for
Gaiam, Inc.

Web Site: http://www.gaiam.com/

Current Coupons From Footlocker

2009 Race the Troops Duathlon

Some of the women in the 45-49 age group, at the Race the Troops duathlon. That's me, the Run Diva, #1 on the podium.

At the beginning of 2009, I started racing in sprint distance duathlons. The triathlon/duathlon season in south Florida runs from February through November, quite a long season. I participated in the Multirace series of races down here in south Florida. That was a series of 12 races, that could be done as either a sprint triathlon, or a sprint triathlon.

Run Diva running at Race the Troops duathlon

Duathlon Points Series

I was able to compete in 10 of the 12 races. I would have competed in all 12 races, but one race was the same weekend as the Key Largo MS150, and another one was the same weekend as America's Most Beautiful Bike Ride.

I got hooked after my very first duathlon in February, when I won 2nd place in my age group. I was lucky to win an award at every race this season, and ended up #1 in my age group for the points series. Pretty cool for someone new to the multisport scene.

Run Diva, AKA Bike Diva, on the bike portion of the Race the Troops duathlon

Run Diva's 2009 Duathlon Results

1. 10/18/09 - Race the Troops Duathlon - Tradewinds Park, Coconut Creek, FL - USAT 1st place Women 45-49.
2. 9/20/09 - Mack Cycle Duathlon Bonus Round - Crandon Park - Key Biscayne, FL - USAT 1st place Women 45-49.
3. 8/30/09 - Sprint duathlon - Tradewinds Park - Coconut Creek, FL - USAT 2nd place Women 45-49.
   
4. 8/16/09 - Mack Cycle Duathlon Trilogy #3 - Miami Marine Stadium - Key Biscayne, FL - USAT 2nd place Women 45-49.
5. 7/19/09 - Mack Cycle Duathlon Trilogy #2 - Miami Marine Stadium - Key Biscayne, FL - USAT 1st place Women 45-49.
6. 7/04/09 - 19th Annual Independence Day Duathlon - Tradewinds Park - Coconut Creek, FL - USAT 4th place Female 45-49.
7. 6/21/09 - Mack Cycle Duathlon Trilogy #1 - Crandon Park - Key Biscayne, FL - USAT 3rd place Female Masters.
8. 3/22/09 - Tradition Duathlon - Tradition Town Center - Port St. Lucie, FL - USAT 3rd place Female Masters.
9. 3/01/09 - Chilly Willy Duathlon - CB Smith Park - Pembroke Pines, FL - USAT 1st place Female 45-49.
10. 2/08/09 - Duathlon Season Opener - Tradewinds Park - Coconut Creek, FL- USAT 2nd place Female 45-49.

Looking pretty comfortable on my new Cervelo P2C triathlon bike

Race the Troops Duathlon

I had been racing on my Trek Madone 6.5 WSD road bike all season. I've been secretly lusting after a triathlon bike, to help increase my bike times, and make running easier after doing the bike portion of the races. A couple of months ago I got a fantastic deal on a set of Reynold's SDV66C deep dish carbon clincher wheels. I had been using the Reynold's on my road bike, but when I finally decided to go ahead and get a tri bike, I knew I would be putting the deep dish wheels on the tri bike.

The Race Troops duathlon, held on October 18 at Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek, was the very first time I raced on the new bike. My bike time wasn't any faster, but I actually thought I would be quite a bit slower. The Cervelo P2C is the very first triathlon bike I have ever owned, and I've never ridden in aerobars before. I just got the bike 2 weeks before the Race the Troops duathlon - still figuring out all the bells and whistles. Despite having a brand new bike, I still managed to take 3 minutes off my run time. In a sprint distance race 3 minutes is HUGE!

Ready for the pros!?!

Faster Race Time

Race the Troops was the 4th time I've raced at Tradewinds Park this year. All my other times were within a few seconds of each other. So to be 3 minutes faster, I can only say it's because my legs felt awesome after getting of the tri bike, and I was actually able to run the entire time, and not take any walk breaks.

When I checked the race results, I originally was #2 in my age group. But the girl that placed #1, received a 2 minute penalty for drafting while on the bike course. ILLEGAL MOVE! So I was bumped up to #1 in my age group - SWEET!

Run Diva crossing the finish line at Race the Troops duathlon

Tradewinds Park Duathlon Race Times

All duathlon races at Tradewinds Park were the following distance: 1 mile run - 10 mile bike - 2.5 mile run.

• February 8: 1 hour 11 minutes 15 seconds
• July 4: 1 hour 11 minutes 26 seconds
• August 30: 1 hour 11 minutes 14 seconds
• October 8: 1 hour 8 minutes 32 seconds

Miami Man

I have one final duathlon to race in for the 2009 race season. I'll be doing my very first 1/2 Ironman distance event on November 8 at Miami Man. That is a 1 mile run - 56 mile bike - 13.1 mile run. That's going to be a bit of a challenge after concentrating on sprint distance races all season. My goal is to finish the race, and get a finishers medal. I can't imagine I will be anywhere near placing on the podium in my age group. But one can always dream!

Take care,
Lynn Smythe AKA the Run Diva

5th Annual Voice of Love 5k

     

   *** MEDIA ADVISORY ***

 

5^th Annual Voice of Love Run/Walk & Roll 5k Presented by Aetna & hosted by The City of Hialeah Gardens

WHAT:           5^th Annual Voice of Love Run/Walk & Roll 5K is a family fun competitive run/walk & roll (wheel chair participant) event that raises awareness to Voice of Love’s mission of supporting families in crisis.

Voice of Love’s Mission Statement: Strengthening families in crisis, worldwide, by supporting them through various care services and providing educational training and development programs through: Love in Action.

The Run/Walk & Roll event started to raise funds through the race and exhibitors who participate in our event.  The average distance of our race is 3.1 miles (five kilometers).  This event has grown every year uniting the South Florida community and educating all about the importance of supporting families in crisis by raising money that provides help to families who need it the most.  After the run/walk & roll event are the kids dashes that allow the little ones to enjoy a fun run event for them as well.  There will be prizes for all and the event will take place rain or shine.

There is no cost to attend the Family Fun event were there will be FREE face painting, bounce houses and free snacks for all!  There is no cost to attend the Family Fun event were there will be FREE face painting, bounce houses, free wholesome family entertainment and free snacks for all!

WHO: Hundreds of people expected to attend this year’s event

·         Angels Reach Developmental Enrichment Center in providing services to families of special needs children, many of which dispose of limited financial means.

·         Author & Founder of Arts Possibilities Mayra Ron shares A View of Our World by an Adult with Autism and Diary of a Crazy Woman

·         City of Hialeah Gardens Police & Fire Department

·         And many more

WHEN:               Saturday, October 17

                                Registration begins at 6:30 a.m./Race Starts at 7:30 a.m. Register online for the Voice of Love 5k event through the Split Second Timing website.

               

 

WHERE:       Westland Gardens Park   

                           13501 N.W. 107th Avenue

Hialeah Gardens, FL 33018         

 

MEDIA INFO:

Media is cordially invited to record/photograph any news related story related to this event. Please let us know if you will be attending our event to better accommodate you.

MEDIA CONTACTS:   

Sandra Camacho

Media/Sponsorship Co-Chair

Via cell 305-975-2999

Via e-mail avoiceoflove@aol.com

Voice of Love Training & Development appreciates the support of our generous sponsors and recognizes the importance of their support to our event.  Special thanks to Aetna for being a Presenting Sponsor two years in a row.  We truly appreciate the philanthropic support that Aetna awarded us enabling us to offer our community the best event possible. 

The City of Hialeah Gardens, Mayor Yioset De La Cruz and everyone at the City of Hialeah Gardens Westland Gardens Park staff, special thanks to Walter Dubon, Director Parks & Recreation.

The City of Hialeah Gardens, Mayor Yioset De La Cruz and everyone at the City of Hialeah Gardens Westland Gardens Park staff, special thanks to Walter Dubon, Director Parks & Recreation.  Additional sponsors include:   Kreative Kolors, Costco Wholesale, Star Bucks, Miami Institute of Medical Technology, The Miami Heat, Mary Kay, Nutrition S’Mart, Buca Di Beppo and Casa Havana, Photovision, Sunflower Entertainment, Hilton Garden Inn, The Flyer.com

# # #

Nissan Official ING Miami Marathon Vehicle

    

 Contact: Gary Ferman                              Al Abrams
                  Specialty Sports                        Nissan Masters Communications
                  (954) 432-1143                             (646) 210-7016

 NISSAN NAMED OFFICIAL VEHICLE OF ING MIAMI MARATHON® |AND
TITLE SPONSOR OF THE EVENT’S HEALTH AND FITNESS EXPO

Nissan has reached an agreement with US Road Sports & Entertainment of Florida to become the official vehicle of the ING Miami Marathon and Half Marathon®. In addition, Nissan will be the title-sponsor of the Health and Fitness Expo that serves as a prelude to the Marathon .

The Expo, which will be held January 29 and January 30 at the Miami Beach Convention Center, will now be titled the Nissan Health and Fitness Expo presented by The Miami Herald and El Nuevo Herald. 

The Nissan Expo will house more than 100 booths and interactive areas where the public can obtain the latest in running shoes and apparel, free samples, and listen to guest speakers provide tips for health, fitness, training, and nutrition.  Packet pick-up for all participants takes place at the Expo and last year over 50,000 people took advantage of the two day event.

Nissan’s activation at the expo will feature appearances by Nissan ‘Master’ Tara Stiles, a yoga activist who will conduct stretching classes for race participants next to the Nissan booth. In addition to several vehicle displays, consumers will have a chance to have their photo taken and placed on a personalized cover of Runner’s World Magazine. There will be other interactive activities for consumers, including instant win games and merchandise give-aways.

“Nissan is excited to be the official vehicle partner for the 2010 ING Miami Marathon®, one of America’s premier road races,” said Christian Meunier, vice president, Marketing, Nissan North America. “Together with our title-sponsorship of the event’s health and fitness expo and serving as the Official Pace Car of the ING Miami Marathon and Half Marathon®, this partnership is a great way to bring our Master the Shift platform to the active lifestyle community and allows us to connect to consumers in a way that aligns Nissan with their passions.”

“We are extremely proud to welcome Nissan as the official vehicle for the 2010 ING Miami Marathon and Half Marathon® as well as the title sponsor of the Health and Fitness Expo,” said David Scott, General Manager for US Road Sports & Entertainment of Florida and Race Director for the marathon. “It is a strong demonstration of the commitment that Nissan has in partnering with us on the production of events leading up to the premier running event in South Florida .

Nissan’s Master the Shift program targets active lifestyle enthusiasts through a series of 13 running and cycling events nationwide, master athlete/trainer endorsements, custom website mastertheshift.com and promotional media. Four elite athletes and trainers-Masters-will offer a rare insiders look at how they train for success and offer tips on how to shift your performance to a new level of personal achievement.  The Masters also will offer training plans, blogs and video segments on mastertheshift.com, where one lucky winner will win a Nissan Altima. ING Miami Marathon participants and spectators will have an opportunity to view several of Nissan’s vehicles, including the 2009 Altima, throughout the weekend.

The ING Miami Marathon and Half Marathon®, South Florida’s premier running event, will be held January 31, 2010 with more than 17,000 runners racing through the streets of downtown Miami , Miami Beach and Coconut Grove. Cruise ships, neon lights, palm trees and plenty of spectators will line one of the flattest, most scenic courses in the country.  The ING Miami Marathon & Half Marathon® has been ranked among the top 10 running destinations by USA Today 

Registration remains open for both marathon and half marathon distances, as well as the Tropical 5K that takes place the day before the marathon on January 30, 2010.

Call (305) 278-8668 or visit www.ingmiamimarathon.com.

About US Road Sports

US Road Sports & Entertainment Group, LP is a Dallas-based company dedicated to the production of world-class endurance events.  The mission of US Road Sports is to offer an unparalleled participant sports experience that showcases host communities and endures as a deeply valued local asset through events that are a part of the city’s culture, identity and brand.  For each participant, US Road Sports strives to offer events that allow participants of all skill levels the opportunity to improve their physical and mental health and accomplish life-altering goals while having fun.  US Road Sports provides sponsors and municipalities highly effective exposure to help maximize their presence and message in the community.

About Nissan 

In North America , Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010, whose key priorities are reducing CO₂ emissions, cutting other emissions and increasing recycling. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and www.infiniti.com.

Chrissie Wellington Wins Ironman Championships

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

Michael De Leon

Cycling Sports Group

(608) 268-8309

MDeLeon@cannondalegroup.com

 

 

Cannondale Athlete Chrissie Wellington Wins World Ironman Championships

Wellington sets new course record and leads the Cannondale line-up of athletes

 

Bethel, Conn – October 12, 2009 –Cannondale athlete Chrissie Wellington won her third consecutive Ford Ironman World Triathlon Championships this past Saturday in Kona, HI. Wellington beat out 1,800 world-class contenders with a record breaking overall time of 8: 54: 03 while also turning in the fastest bike leg time.  Wellington, who rides the newest edition of the Cannondale Slice Hi Mod, came to the starting line as the reigning defending champion, a two-time winner, and the current world record holder.

“I knew going into the race the competition and conditions were going to make for a tough day,” said Wellington.  “Cannondale knows what triathletes need and expect from their bikes and my Cannondale Slice helped me perform at the level I needed to in order to win this grueling competition. It was the wind beneath my wings.”

 

Wellington had four previous victories in 2009 while riding the Cannondale Slice, winning Ironman Timberman 70.3, Ironman Australia, Ironman 70.3 Kansas, and the Quelle Roth Challenge, where she broke the world record for Ironman-distance triathlons with a time of 8:31:59. 

 

Challengers in Saturday’s race, 2007 Ford Ironman 70.3 World Champion Mirinda Carfrae and 2008 Ford Ironman third place finisher Sandra Wallenhorst, joined Wellington riding the new Cannondale Slice, finishing 2nd and 8th respectively.

A relative unknown before Saturday, Australia’s Carfrae had a very impressive finish, 19:57 behind standout Wellington. The Kona World Championship race was Carfrae’s first ever Ironman-distance event. Previously she was known for her successes at shorter distance races and had six 70.3 victories in 2009 alone.

 

On the men's side, Cannondale’s Ronnie Schildknecht, passed 32 competitors on the cycling portion of the race on his way to 18th place overall. Likewise, teammate Miki Weiss put in a blazing bike leg of 4:30:04, passing 68 people on his way to 25th. With no official ranking available at press time, Weiss' bike leg appears to have been second-fastest of the day.

 

“Cannondale is proud to have been a part of so many record-setting results at this year’s triathlon championships,” said Rory Mason, Director of Sports Marketing for Cycling Sports Group. “Cannondale is committed to push the boundaries of innovation and technology in order to give athletes the bikes they expect for world class performance.”

 

The Cannondale Slice is a leading model in aerodynamics and allows the cyclists to achieve maximum speeds. As one of the absolute lightest triathlon bikes on the market, it also boasts the best stiffness-to-weight ratio in the industry. The frame’s S.A.V.E. tube shaping absorbs road vibration, helping the triathlete to easily transition from rider to runner. The Slice is the choice bike for the world’s top Ironman competitors.

 

For more information on the Cannondale Slice Hi Mod  click here.

 

Cannondale is a premium brand of the Cycling Sports Group Division of Dorel Industries (TSX: DII.B, DII.A).

 

About Cannondale

Founded in 1971, Cannondale is a global designer, developer and manufacturer of high performance bicycles, apparel and accessories. With a strong reputation for continuous innovation and quality, the company is headquartered in Bethel, Connecticut, USA, with offices in Australia, Canada, Holland, Japan, Switzerland, United Kingdom and an assembly facility in Bedford, Pennsylvania.

 

About Dorel

Dorel Industries Inc. (TSX: DII.B, DII.A) is a world class juvenile products and bicycle company. Established in 1962, Dorel creates style and excitement in equal measure to safety, quality and value. The Company’s lifestyle leadership position is pronounced in both its Juvenile and Bicycle categories with an array of trend-setting products. Dorel’s powerfully branded products include Safety 1st, Quinny, Cosco, Maxi-Cosi and Bébé Confort in Juvenile, as well as Cannondale, Schwinn, GT, Mongoose, Iron Horse and SUGOI in Recreational/Leisure. Dorel’s Home Furnishings segment markets a wide assortment of furniture products, both domestically produced and imported. Dorel is a US$2.2 billion company with 4700 employees, facilities in eighteen countries, and sales worldwide.  

 

 

Miami Half Ironman Triathlon

PRESS RELEASE: Miami Hosts Newest Ironman 70.3

Inaugural event takes place on October 30, 2010

World Triathlon Corporation officially announces that Miami, Florida will serve as the host city for the newest Ironman 70.3 event. Taking place on October 30, 2010, Ironman 70.3 Miami will consist of a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile run. Because Miami offers a variety of great architecture and a wide diversity of cultures, Ironman 70.3 Miami will quickly establish itself as a destination event and is expected to sell out quickly.

The inaugural event will reach capacity at 2,000 athletes. There will be 50 qualifying slots available to the 2011 Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3 in addition to a prize purse of $36,000 for distribution among the top male and female professional finishers. Registration for this event is now available at www.ironmanmiami.com.

The swim will be held in the protected waters of Biscayne Bay, near The Port of Miami. Following the swim, the bike course will lead athletes north to Watson Island, making a loop heading back down south to Homestead. During the ride, athletes will pass unique and historical architecture consisting of classic and modern mansions, as well as a mini-tour of the Mediterranean Style of Coral Gables, Coconut Grove and Pinecrest.

After entering the transition area in Bayfront Park, the athletes will begin the two-loop run course alongside the waters of Miami where they will encounter the scenic views of Miami, which include The Port of Miami and Star Island. The race will finish at the famous Bayfront Park with picturesque views and contrasting landscapes as a backdrop. Athlete Check-In and the Expo will take place at Bayfront Park, 301 Biscayne Blvd. More details can be found at the event website, www.ironmanmiami.com

###

Miami Tri Events is an upcoming events company that is producing the Ironman 70.3 Miami. The company is made up of a team of professionals with the knowledge and experience in the triathlon field. Co-producing the event is Excel Events and Productions. With four years of experience, the company put on one of the most well- known triathlons in the nation, the Miami International Triathlon. Together, these two companies will assure a high class and great Ironman 70.3 Miami.

All Soul's 5K Off Road Race

Challenge Yourself with a Beautiful, Off Road 5k Race! Plus Activities and Fun Run for the Whole Family!

All Souls-Christ School Off Road Race

Sunday, September 27, 2009
Registration from 2:30-3:45 pm.
5K begins promptly at 4:00 pm
Fun Run to begin about 4:45.
Rain or shine on the campus of
Christ School in South Asheville

Field limited to first 200 registrants.
All participants receive All Souls’ Commemorative Pint Glass (soon to be collector’s item).
AWARDS FOR TOP THREE OVERALL MALE AND FEMALE
AGE GROUPS: 12 AND UNDER, 13–15, 16–19, 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60+.

Entry Fee: $23 by Sept. 19th and $25 on the day of the race. $5 for the Fun Run.
 Click here for registration through active.com or register on the day of the event

Child care is available during the race.

Christ School is located at 500 Christ School Rd, Arden, NC (South Asheville)

From Asheville, take Sweeten Creek(25A) south almost to end. Turn left on Christ School Rd. Go to end of road.

Results posted on www.allsoulscathedral.org,  www.christschool.org. The All Soul's 5k race benefits the NEXT STEP FUND, a resource for homeward bound women.

Injinji Performance Toe Sock

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Injinji® Introduces the XR™ Xtreme Revitalization Performance Toesock

Patented Pre/Post-Game Sock Powered by Tim Grover, Trainer to the Pros

SAN DIEGO, CA (September 2, 2009) – “It’s gotta be the shoes?” Maybe it’s the socks. Injinji®, innovator of the world’s first patented Performance Toesock™, introduces the Injinji XR™ Xtreme Revitalization. The five-toe-sleeve performance-enhancing phenomenon has been created in conjunction with top trainer and ATTACK Athletics president Tim Grover, the man behind NBA heavyweights Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade and Tracy McGrady, among others.

            Known in the sports industry for his commitment to cutting-edge research and proprietary methodologies on how to effectively train and rehabilitate professional athletes, Grover has given some of the greatest NBA players of all time – as well as professional football and baseball players – a competitive edge on the court and field through his Chicago-based ATTACK Athletics program.

The new Injinji XR will evolve Grover’s methods by adding another dimension to the program philosophy – a Precision Arch Support that only the Injinji XR Xtreme Revitalization Toesock can provide, which enables arches to recover faster, reduces fatigue, and isolates individual muscles assuring proper recovery.

            “Key to the ATTACK Athletics training philosophy is the belief that there is always room for improvement, even for the best athletes in the world,” said Grover. “The new Injinji XR allows us to add another extremely effective tool to the training regimen to further improve the success of our clients.”

Featuring Injinji’s patented Anatomical Interface System (AIS) technology, the XR separates each toe with a thin layer of anti-friction fabric. In addition to allowing the foot to function freely and naturally inside shoes as if barefoot, the proven design minimizes rubbing and moisture buildup between the toes to prevent athlete’s foot, blisters and other common foot ailments.

            Ideal for pre-and post game wear, the Injinji XR features COOLMAX® freshFX™ antibacterial, odor-resistant and moisture-wicking fibers; the compression enhancement features of LYCRA®; and the strength and durability of nylon.

            The XR is part of Injinji’s Performance Series, recently recognized by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) for its ability to effectively manage moisture and promote healthy digital alignment.

            “We’re excited to witness the evolutionary possibilities of Grover’s renowned ATTACK Athletics training techniques when paired with the Injinji XR Toesock technology,” said Jason Battenfield, chief executive officer and president of Injinji. “We anticipate phenomenal progression in terms of performance enhancement.”

            The new Injinji XR Xtreme Revitalization is comprised of 70% COOLMAX freshFX; 25% nylon; and 5% LYCRA. Available for purchase through Eastbay in late October 2009, the Toesock comes in Micro, Mini-Crew and Crew styles. MSRP: $16

 

About Injinji

            Injinji is the maker of Performance Toesocks™ for sport, outdoor and casual use. A recipient of the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance, Injinji’s Performance Series is recognized for its ability to provide superior moisture management and healthy digital alignment. For more information on the company, visit www.injinji.com.

 

About Tim Grover and ATTACK Athletics

            When Michael Jordan needed to get stronger, faster, and fitter, he turned to Tim Grover and the Attack Athletics training philosophy. Over 20 years later, a lot has happened. Out of a brand new state-of-the-art facility in Chicago , Attack Athletics now trains both professional athletes looking to make a name for themselves and business professionals looking for personal improvement. For more information, visit www.attackathletics.com.

Bank of America Chicago Marathon

PRESS RELEASE

Bank of America Chicago Marathon Celebrates Race's Community Impact with New Campaign

Introduces first-ever digital fundraising program and new creative featuring 2009 race participants and spectators Releases results of newest economic impact study showing continued growth in event's contribution to host city

CHICAGO, Sept. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- The Bank of America Chicago Marathon today launched its first-ever digital fundraising program, further extending the race's annual philanthropic impact of generating $10 million for local, national and global charities. The Marathon also introduced new advertising featuring 2009 race participants as well as results of a 2008 event economic impact study.

"Our 2009 campaign demonstrates how the Bank of America Chicago Marathon makes a significant impact on not only the individual participants who aspire to achieve their personal best, but also to the more than 120 charities that benefit from the race as well as the economy in the host city of Chicago," said Tim Maloney, Illinois State and Chicago Market President for Bank of America. "It's a source of great pride to know that through our involvement in this event we can continue to contribute to the economic, social and cultural vitality of the city and leave a positive mark on the lives of so many people."

The digital fundraising program and advertising launch this month online, in print and outdoor to celebrate the 32nd running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 11.

Digital Fundraising Program - Footprints for Charity

Beginning today, fans everywhere are invited to customize a digital running shoe tread with a personal image and tailored message at www.chicagomarathon.com/footprint. For each submission, Bank of America will donate $1 to the designer's choice of one of 22 charities, up to a maximum total contribution of $50,000. The completed digital footprints will be viewable on the event site's home page.

On race day, the final results of the fundraising effort will be announced and an additional $10,000 will be awarded by Bank of America to the charity that received the most submissions on its behalf.

Fans interested in creating a digital footprint of their own should visit  www.chicagomarathon.com or www.facebook.com/ChicagoMarathon where videos, training tips from elite runners and the latest Bank of America Chicago Marathon news are also available.

Participant-Focused Advertising Campaign

To celebrate the many inspiring stories that come to life on race day, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon is introducing a unique and new advertising campaign for the 2009 event featuring real athletes and spectators, ranging from elite, world-class racers to a mother who spends her days chasing triplets.

The 2009 Bank of America Chicago Marathon campaign, created by BBDO New York, illustrates the theme that every participant and spectator who attend on race day directly contribute to the impact that the race leaves behind.

Seven participants from this year's event are featured in the campaign, and some of the inspiring stories include:

 -- Steven Baskis (Forest Park, Ill.), an U.S. Army infantryman who lost
   his vision in combat last year in Iraq will prove that limited sight
   won't stand in the way of achieving his goals
 -- Kurt Fearnley (Australia) will challenge the Paralympic record books -
   again - as he defends his 2007 and 2008 Chicago titles
 -- Marc Gershman (Scottsdale, Ariz.) will take another step towards
   completing marathons in all 50 states

 -- Sammy Wanjiru (Kenya), the 22 year-old 2008 Beijing Olympic Games gold
   medalist will continue his quest to lower his personal best of 2:05:10

To recognize the important role of spectators, Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski is featured in the campaign, leading the cheering masses as a tribute to his 20th anniversary with the event.

"The energy of Chicago fans is like nothing else in the world - they are a huge part of what makes this race a world class event, and it's an honor to be featured alongside them," said Pinkowski, who has served as Executive Race Director since 1990.

Chicagoans can see the ad campaign in larger-than-life proportions on the famed mural wall along the Kennedy Expressway at North Ave. Designed by Chicago native, 23-year-old Chuck Anderson, the uniquely treated creative illustration depicts participants and spectators in overlapping colorful Nike shoe treads.

Print ads and outdoor elements featuring the participants will appear in the Chicago market during the month of September and early October. For full information on these stories and others featured in the campaign, as well as high resolution images of the creative, visit the online press center at www.chicagomarathon.com.

Race Charitable & Economic Impact Continues to Grow

As a member of the World Marathon Majors, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon draws a substantial international crowd and assists in contributing to the economic vibrancy of the host city and raising money for a number of worthwhile charities.

Approximately 8,000 participants registered in the 2009 Bank of America Chicago Marathon are raising money for 123 charities. The Marathon estimates these runners to collectively raise $10 million this fall for local, national and global causes.

In addition to its philanthropic heritage, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon also makes a significant contribution to the regional economy each year. According to a new University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's Regional Economics Applications Laboratory (R.E.A.L.) report which studied the 2008 race, the Marathon contributes $143 million in economic impact to greater Chicago. The study used the Chicago Region Econometric Input-Output Model (CREIM) to derive the estimate of the total economic impact of the event, which is largely derived from the tourism industry including hotels, restaurants and entertainment.

According to the report, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon attracts new visitors to Chicago and contributes to improving the image of the city as a tourist destination. In addition, the event takes place during a low tourism period, helping to reduce the negative effect of seasonality in Chicago tourism.

About Bank of America Chicago Marathon

The 32nd 2009 Bank of America Chicago Marathon will start and finish in Chicago's Grant Park beginning at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11. In advance of the race, a two-day Health & Fitness Expo will be held at McCormick Place on Friday, October 9 and Saturday, October 10. More information on the race and how to get involved is available at the event Web site, chicagomarathon.com.

Source: Bank of America

CONTACT: Marianne Caponi, Bank of America Chicago Marathon,
+1-312-992-6618, (C) +1-312-446-4463, (F) +1-312-904-9820,
marianne.caponi@bankofamerica.com; or Joseph Goode of Bank of America,
+1-617-434-7314, (C) +1-781-799-6048, joseph.l.goode@bankofamerica.com

Web Site: http://www.chicagomarathon.com/