Competitor Group Inc (CGI), the leading active lifestyle sports media and event entertainment company, has announced a three-year partnership with REI (Recreational Equipment Inc), one of the US nation’s largest outdoor gear and apparel retailers.
In 2013, REI will become the title partner of the Muddy Buddy Adventure Series, as well as presenting sponsor of the TriRock Triathlon Series.
“At REI, we are passionate about the outdoors and inspiring others through our educational classes and programs,” said Sally Johnson, REI Outdoor Programs and Outreach Manager. “These events encompass the love of adventure that is a cornerstone of our company and customers.”
“REI has a fundamental understanding of our participants and what they love to do and we’re thrilled to have them take such a large role in our multisport category of events,” said John Smith, Senior Vice President at Competitor Group. “REI really goes beyond gear and apparel and engages in outdoor sports on a participatory level that’s unique for a retailer of their size and influence.”
The REI Muddy Buddy series encompasses adventure races that invite teams of two to choose between the traditional REI Muddy Buddy Bike & Run, in which participants switch off running and biking, and the REI Muddy Buddy Run, which keeps teams together as they navigate on foot. Courses are lined with challenging obstacles and creative costumes are encouraged.
Each event’s signature finale involves both teammates crawling through a 50-foot-long mud pit before crossing the finish line together. REI Muddy Buddy is a family friendly event, welcoming kids ages four to 11 to join in the Mini Muddy Buddy. Leading up to the events, REI stores also host Mud Run, Bike Maintenance and Outdoor Fitness Basics classes taught by REI instructors to help athletes prepare to participate.
Originally unveiled in 2010, Competitor Group’s TriRock Triathlon Series, now presented by REI, has grown into one of the US nation’s premier multisport series, taking place in eight cities across the country in 2013. The triathlon events feature Olympic and Sprint distances with entertainment positioned along the race route, offering a unique race experience.
Participants just testing the waters of the triathlon experience can also sign up as a three-person relay team, taking on either the swim, bike or run component. In 2013, REI will host educational programs to support participants, including a TriRock class led by triathletes and on-going Triathlon Basics classes led by REI experts.
In both events, participants receive a finishers medal, t-shirt and for those over 21, access to a post-race beer garden.
Information and registration for the REI Muddy Buddy Adventure Series benefiting the Prostate Cancer Foundation is available online at www.MuddyBuddy.com. To sign up for the TriRock Triathlon Series presented by REI, athletes can visit www.TriRockSeries.com.
www.competitorgroup.com
www.rei.com
