Ahead of this weekend’s battle on the lava fields, at the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, four-time Ironman World Champion Craig ‘Crowie’ Alexander has signed a new sponsorship agreement with TYR Sport Inc.
Commenting on his new apparel/wetsuit deal with TYR, Crowie said, “It’s a great honour for me to partner with a company that has created so much innovation in our sport. The new Hurricane Freak of Nature wetsuit is a perfect example of TYR’s commitment to triathlon. I am very happy to be associated with such a quality family-run company.”
“TYR is very happy to have formed a long-term relationship with Craig, a phenomenal athlete of exceptional character,” added Ryan Dolan, Vice President of Sales for TYR Sport. “Craig is revered and respected by the entire sporting community, and his down-to-earth demeanour makes him an ideal role model and spokesperson for the sport of triathlon.”
In early October, Orbea Bicycles and sister brand Orca Wetsuits, confirmed the end of their endorsement agreement with Alexander. This parting of ways had been expected, as Alexander rode what appeared to be an, unbranded, Cervélo P4, rather than an Orbea Ordu.
Rumours subsequently circulated about Alexander’s new bike endorsement contract. This week Alexander confirmed that he will be riding a Specialized Shiv at this weekend’s Ironman World Championship.
In a statement Alexander said, “I enjoyed the time I was associated with Orbea and Orca and I thank them for all they have done for me over the years.”
Tony Karklins, Managing Director of Orbea USA, said “We are saddened and very disappointed that Orbea’s and Orca’s association with Craig has come to an end. Craig was always the consummate professional in every way, and was a valued representative for our brands. We will miss him greatly, both as a friend and spokesperson, and wish him all the best in his quest to win an Ironman World Championship this weekend.”
Named by Inside Triathlon Magazine as one of ‘10 Greatest Male Iron-Distance Athletes of All Time’, Alexander will race for his fifth world title at the 2011 Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii later this week.
Alexander won consecutive Ironman World Championship titles in 2008 and 2009, and most recently won the 2011 Ironman 70.3 World Championship. He previously won the 70.3 World Title in 2006.
Alexander also owns three Australian Long Course Championship victories and more than two-dozen Ironman 70.3 titles.
