Running's Power To Inspire Individuals And Communities Focus Of National Campaign From Mizuno & Fleet Feet Sports

NORCROSS, Ga., Oct. 24, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Mizuno and Fleet Feet Sports have come together to showcase the inspirational power of running, through a national campaign that will bring improvements to local running communities in 24 markets (see accompanying list for specific markets) across the country.

The community improvement program is part of The Power of Running to Inspire – a national consumer contest from Fleet Feet Sports and Mizuno – designed to identify individuals across Fleet Feet Sports retail markets for whom running has been critical to overcoming personal challenges and obstacles, or improving their lives or the lives of others.

"The power of running really epitomizes what our locally owned-and-operated stores are committed to creating in their communities every day," says Ellen Donahue, Director of marketing for Fleet Feet Sports. "We are so grateful for the partnership and support of Mizuno in helping these individuals, communities, and stores be recognized and supported in such meaningful ways that further the inspiration that's already occurred."

In addition to recognizing runners locally, Mizuno has committed more than $60,000 for community projects that address a variety of needs that will improve the local running experience or bring resources where necessary to local running communities. Examples of potential projects range from support for local high school cross-country programs to upgrades of public running trails. 

"Running is so much more than a fitness or competitive pastime. It's a lifestyle with a totally unique culture unto itself," said Kim Hoey, Division Brand Marketing Director, Mizuno USA - Running, "Mizuno actively works to improve the culture and community of runners, and this campaign is another way for us to inspire and make an impact at the ground level with local running communities."

Mizuno, in partnership with local Fleet Feet stores collaborated to identify the most pressing needs within their local running communities and implement by the end of the year. Details on the local initiatives will be shared as community needs are assessed. 

The submission period for The Power of Running to Inspire consumer campaign closed on Sept. 18^th. Five regional winners from each participating Fleet Feet Sports location will be announced in late October. One winner from each of the regional winning groups will become eligible to be named one of five national winners, earning national recognition and $500 for their unique story of inspiration.

For more information regarding The Power of Running to Inspire campaign, visit https://www.fleetfeetsports.com/inspireform. 

About Mizuno USA, Inc.
Mizuno USA, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Mizuno Corporation, one of the largest specialty sporting goods manufacturers in the world. Mizuno USA, Inc. manufactures and distributes baseball, golf, softball, running, and volleyball equipment, apparel, and footwear for North America. Mizuno USA, Inc. is based in Norcross, Ga.

SOURCE Mizuno USA, Inc.