Competitor Group, Inc. (CGI) announced that Goal Zero, Keen and SmartWool have signed on as official sponsors of the REI Muddy Buddy Adventure Series benefiting the Prostate Cancer Foundation. The series will take place in nine U.S. cities in 2013.

REI Muddy Buddy events are 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 Mud Run, which keeps teams together as they navigate on foot. After completing 8-12 giant obstacles and a challenging course, competitors must crawl through a 50-foot mud pit before crossing the finish line together.

Joining the muddy fun in 2013 is Goal Zero, named Official Portable Solar Power Product Partner. An innovator in solar energy, Goal Zero creates portable solar power systems that can power a variety of devices, from cell phones to laptops and even refrigerators, from any location.

SmartWool has also signed on as Official Apparel Partner, connecting their popular brand of technical clothing and socks with the adventure-loving participants of REI Muddy Buddy, along with Keen, Official Footwear Partner for the 2013 series.

These are all brands that offer products that will resonate with our participants and their needs, as well as their passion for the outdoors, said Sean Clottu, vice president of sales development and activation at Competitor Group. Were thrilled to welcome them to a race series that is truly all about having fun.

REI Muddy Buddy benefits the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF), the worlds largest source of support for prostate cancer research. Teams can sign up to participate with Athletes for a Cure, the fundraising and awareness program of PCF. Funds raised will support prostate cancer research in early detection and screening, as well as nutrition and exercise focused research as they relate to the disease.  Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in the U.S. and is expected to take the lives of 30,000 men in 2013.
 
The REI Muddy Buddy Adventure Series is marketed as a family friendly event. Kids between the ages of 4 and 11 are invited to participate in the Mini Muddy Buddy, in which they complete a short obstacle course and slither through the same mud pit as the grown-ups. 

Information and registration for the REI Muddy Buddy Adventure Series benefiting the Prostate Cancer Foundation is available online at www.MuddyBuddy.com.