Saucony, Inc. has announced the signing of World Champion sprinter and two-time U.S. Olympian Lauryn Williams to a multi-year endorsement contract.
In her first season as a professional, Williams captured silver at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games in the 100-meter sprint and later represented the U.S. again at the 2008 Beijing Olympics over the same distance.
“Im very excited to be joining such a passionate and focused brand,” said Williams. “I feel a great connection with the Saucony team: We both share the determination, hard work and competitive spirit that it takes to be a winner. The brand’s attention to performance and innovation, which Ive experienced in their spikes, will surely help me to achieve my goals on the track. Additionally, their commitment to kids fitness, through the Saucony Run For Goodsm Foundation, will allow me to expand my philanthropic goals, helping kids in the fight against childhood obesity. I look forward to representing the brand and the Saucony team with the utmost pride and integrity.”
Williams is also well-known for her passion for giving: For her charitable work outside of competition, Williams was honored with the 2009 Jefferson Award for Public Service and the 2006 USA Track and Field Humanitarian of the Year Award.
“Were very honored to partner with an athlete of Lauryn’s caliber and global reputation,” said Richie Woodworth, president of Saucony. “Lauryn’s an exciting runner with unlimited potential and an unparalleled list of athletic and philanthropic accomplishments. Her personable nature and passion for track make her one of the most popular athletes in the sport today. As a role model, Lauryn shines, showing a tremendous strength of character both on and off the track. That strength will continue to inspire the whole Saucony team in our build-up to the 2012 London Olympics and beyond,” added Woodworth.
As part of the endorsement relationship, the brand also announced that a Saucony Run For Good grant in Williams name will be designated to support community-based track and field programs specifically for girls. The grant will be awarded biannually over the length of the contract. “A lot of kids, especially those at-risk, dont participate in sports because of the expense and lack of opportunities,” said Williams. “Playing sports as a girl gave me self-esteem and pride in myself while teaching me the value of hard work. This grant will allow many other girls to realize the benefits that I was so fortunate to experience.”
Williams, 26, competed for the University of Miami Hurricanes from 2002-04 and was a nine-time All-American, winning the NCAA Championship in the 100-meter dash in 2004. She currently lives and trains in Miami, Flordia.
Saucony’s newest athlete endorsement follows on the heels of the brand’s recent signing of Wallace Spearmon, Jr., the winner of three consecutive World Outdoor Championship 200-meter medals (2005, 2007, 2009).
