Nathan, a leader in hydration and visibility gear, introduced a new user-generated video campaign, “Journeys in Running.” The initiative calls for runners of all levels to share their personal stories, in an effort to provide inspiration and insight to others, as they answer the question, “What does running mean to you?”
The campaign launched with a series of compelling video entries that showcase the personal, transformational power of running:
· Chicago native Miguel Blancarte Jr. discovered a passion for running and committed himself to living a healthy lifestyle after a doctor’s prognosis informed him that he would not live past his 40s. Without the help of personal trainers or a “magic” weight loss pill, Miguel dedicated himself to running, going to the gym and eating healthy, and in the process, dropped over 200 lbs. Running gave Miguel a second chance at life, and his Journeys in Running video captures not only his unique perspective, but that of his family and friends, whom he continues to inspire.
· World-class, record-breaking marathoner, ultrarunner and uber-competitor Michael Wardian races between 40 50 times each year, traveling around the world (with his family whenever possible). Running is an essential part of his life’s journey, and amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the UTMB course near Chamonix, France, he talks about pushing boundaries, challenging his body and doing whatever it takes to compete in races up to 135 miles long.
Original video content will continue to be added throughout the year, including more on Michael Wardian, and new inspirational stories about Team Nathan members, Rob Krar, Stephanie Howe, Jason Henrie and other runners of all levels.
“We all run for different reasons physical, emotional, spiritual, competitive. No matter how far you are in your journey in running whether you’re a weekend runner or a 5ker or an ultra marathoner it’s an opportunity to share your story,” said Brent Hollowell, VP of marketing for Nathan. “We want to create an online community where all runners can tell their unique story, so as to encourage, motivate, and inspire other runners to achieve their goals.”
To participate, users are asked to submit their own #JourneysInRunning videos, discussing what inspires them, what motivates them and what keeps them running, to http://www.nathansports.com/journeysinrunning/submit-your-story. The top three video submissions, as determined by Nathan, will receive the following prizes: grand prize, $500 in Nathan gear; second prize, $250 in Nathan gear; third prize, $100 in Nathan gear. Select stories will also be featured on www.nathansports.com, as well as on Nathan social media.
Nathan’s hydration, visibility and performance offerings targeted to road warriors, ultra runners, triathletes, couch to 5Ker’s, and every dedicated athlete in between, include hydration vests, belts, handhelds, bottles, running paks, active visibility and reflective vests, and other outdoor gear essentials.
