World Triathlon Corporation (WTC), owner of the Ironman brand, has unveiled a new licensing deal with triathlon-focused bike company Ceepo. The agreement establishes Ceepo as the ‘Official Bicycle Partner’ for Ironman, via a multi-year global licensing deal, with a new branded product available in early January 2009. Additional models, such as the Ironman ‘Viper’ will be released in late spring, with the Ironman ‘Katana’ to follow in the summer.
“As a 14-time Ironman finisher, I recognize Ironman’s brand recognition in the sport of triathlon and worldwide,” said Ceepo President, Joe Tanaka. “It was a goal of mine to partner with Ironman and I am thrilled that we will be working together in the coming year. I look forward to a successful journey ahead.”
Ceepo was formed in Aichi, Japan in 2002 with the primary goal of constructing only the highest grade of carbon bicycle frames, specifically designed for athletes competing in non-drafting triathlon races. The company has grown rapidly, under the leadership of Nobuyuki Tanaka, its founder and Chief Executive Officer. The Ceepo brand has become a household name in Japan where it remains a market leader.
In 2007, CEEPO International was established and now has distribution channels on five continents. The current Ceepo frames known as Venom, Killer and Stinger will be supplemented in 2009 by the new Ironman ‘Viper’ and Ironman ‘Katana’ models.
"Partnering with Ceepo was attractive to us because of their advanced aerodynamic platforms and the quality of their bikes," said Director of Sponsorship and Licensing for Ironman, Andy Giancola.
