Nathan, a specialist in hydration, visibility and performance gear, announced the extension of a multiyear sponsorship with the Ragnar Relay & Ragnar Trail Series, which is the largest overnight running relay series in the world.

As an exclusive sponsor in the new agreement, Nathan will be the Official Hydration Accessories, Wearable Lighting and Reflective Partner of Ragnar, with on-site presence at every event. For 2018, this includes 35 races in the United States and new events in Canada, Germany and the United Kingdom.

A veteran sponsor of more than 100 Ragnar races, Nathan will continue to be the exclusive provider of hydration packs, belts, handhelds and bottles, plus required safety gear—headlamps, active lighting and reflective vests—for all relay and trail races. Products will be available for participants to purchase at races, on the Ragnar website and at retail events with key partners.

“Simply put, Ragnar is the perfect partner for the Nathan brand. We’re thrilled to continue together on a shared mission, as we help runners of all levels achieve both team and personal running goals through proper hydration and running safety,” said Mary Horwath, senior vice president of marketing for United Sports Brands, parent company of Nathan. “As Ragnar participation grows in the U.S. and internationally, we’ll be on the front lines of road and trail, eagerly cheering on the thousands of runners chasing Ragnar glory.”

Nathan and Ragnar will partner on educational guides, social media promotions, contests and virtual events that further engage with and connect the tight-knit, fun-loving and ever-expanding Ragnar community.

“Ragnar is extremely proud of having Nathan as a signature partner in our road and trail series,” said Doug Kaplan, executive vice president of partnerships at Ragnar. “Nathan’s dedication to enhancing the runners’ experience and safety aligns perfectly with our goals of delivering amazing events for our customers.”

Nathan is part of the United Sports Brands portfolio of sports performance and protective product brands, including Shock Doctor, McDavid, Cutters and, XO Athletic, which are owned by Bregal Partners, a private equity investment firm.

Photo courtesy Nathan