Leading outdoor brand Merrell announced as presenting partner for 2016 Tough Mudder event series; New event format Tough Mudder Half introduced to grow Mudder Nation
BROOKLYN, New York, Nov. 5, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, premier obstacle event company Tough Mudder Inc. and outdoor pioneer Merrell®, a division of Wolverine Worldwide, announce a multi-year partnership, introducing Merrell as the presenting partner for global Tough Mudder events. The partnership includes the presenting sponsorship of 60+ global events in 2016, connecting the more than two million Tough Mudder participants with Merrell's industry-leading and innovative outdoor footwear and apparel that inspires people to seek outdoor challenges and enjoy the outside every day. At the same time, Tough Mudder is also launching a brand new event series, Tough Mudder Half. In the spirit of Merrell's commitment to bringing outdoor experiences to wide and new audiences, Merrell will also be the presenting partner for Tough Mudder Half. This world-wide event series will bring the mud and obstacles Tough Mudder is known for to a shorter-distance format.
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"At Merrell, we believe that hard elements shouldn't harden your spirit, that they should be enjoyed, not defeated," said Jim Gabel, President, Merrell. "Tough Mudder shares our vision of wit and grit, and together we are committed to inspiring others to overcome obstacles by eliminating barriers to enjoying the outdoors."
The partnership will unite two brands with worldwide communities of outdoor enthusiasts who value teamwork, fun, unique experiences and physical and mental challenges.
"We are incredibly excited to welcome Merrell as the presenting partner for global Tough Mudder and Tough Mudder Half events," said Will Dean, CEO and co-founder of Tough Mudder Inc. "Tough Mudder is more than an event – it's a lifestyle based on teamwork, courage, personal accomplishment, and fun, and our partnership with Merrell reflects these shared values. Together we will continue to innovate and improve the event in 2016, and help inspire a new community of Mudders."
This partnership comes at a pivotal moment for both companies. Since its founding in 2010, Tough Mudder has established itself as the world's largest event series, with over two million participants to date. Inspired by the trail, Merrell has been making performance gear for people who love the outdoors since 1981.
Merrell to Present Tough Mudder Events Across the Globe
In 2016, Merrell will present 60+ Tough Mudder events in six countries. Each event features a 10+ mile course with world-class obstacles designed to test both physical and mental strength. Courses will include brand new and updated obstacles developed by Tough Mudder's Obstacle Innovation Team with features designed to test Merrell's world-class trail and outdoor gear.
The partnership will leverage both brands' innovation and design capabilities, bringing new products and features to global participants. Touchpoints for the partnership will include:
"Wearing Merrell tells the world you love the outdoors," said Linda Brunzell, Chief Marketing Officer, Merrell. "Our co-developed apparel will not only celebrate the accomplishment of becoming a Mudder, but will enhance the participant experience."
Tough Mudder Unveils New Global Event Series: Tough Mudder Half Presented by Merrell
In 2016, the Tough Mudder Inc. family of events will welcome a significant new addition, Tough Mudder Half, with the worldwide events also being presented by Merrell. Featuring a 5-mile course with more than a dozen obstacles, Tough Mudder Half will bring all the mud of Tough Mudder in half the distance.
"The development of Tough Mudder Half has been guided by our community from the start," said Will Dean. "From those yet to run their first Tough Mudder to multi-Mudders eager to bring new friends into the mud, participants and spectators have been asking for a shorter-distance format for years. With Merrell's partnership, we're excited to build this community and bring another world-class event series to life."
For more information on the 2016 Tough Mudder season, visit www.toughmudder.co.uk. Participant and spectator registrations are now open for more than 30 events, with more to open in the coming weeks. To join the conversation, follow Tough Mudder on Facebook at facebook.com/toughmudderuk, on Twitter @ToughMudder, and on Instagram @Tough_Mudder.
To pick up the latest gear from Merrell, visit www.merrell.com. Socialize with us: Facebook: facebook.com/MerrellUK; Twitter: @merrelluk; Instagram: @merrelloutside; Blog: merrell.com/thepack; YouTube @merrelloutside.
About Tough Mudder:
Founded in 2010 with the launch of the Tough Mudder event series of 10-12 mile military-style obstacle courses, Tough Mudder Inc. has since grown to include Tough Mudder Half, an obstacle challenge bringing the thrills of Tough Mudder to a 5-mile course; Mudderella, an obstacle course series created by women for women; Fruit Shoot Mini Mudder, a custom event for children ages 7-12; and World's Toughest Mudder, a grueling 24-hour endurance competition. The Tough Mudder family of brands is united by a commitment to promoting courage, personal accomplishment and teamwork through unconventional, life-changing experiences. With more than two million participants to date, Tough Mudder Inc. will put on more than 60 events worldwide in 2016. To learn more about Tough Mudder, visit toughmudder.co.uk.
About Merrell:
Merrell® inspires people to seek outdoor challenges and enjoy the outside every day. Merrell hiking boots, trail running shoes and apparel are built on Merrell's outdoor heritage since 1981, quality and performance. The trail is the core of our design philosophy and has continued to guide us in the development of innovative products that inspire and enable enjoyment of the outdoors. www.merrell.com
About Wolverine Worldwide:
With a commitment to service and product excellence, Wolverine World Wide, Inc. is one of the world's leading marketers of branded casual, active lifestyle, work, outdoor sport, athletic, children's and uniform footwear and apparel. The Company's portfolio of highly recognized brands includes: Merrell®, Sperry®, Hush Puppies®, Saucony®, Wolverine®, Keds®, Stride Rite®, Sebago®, Cushe®, Chaco®, Bates®, and HYTEST®. The Company also is the global footwear licensee of the popular brands Cat® and Harley-Davidson®. The Company's products are carried by leading retailers in the U.S. and globally in approximately 200 countries and territories. For additional information, please visit our website, wolverineworldwide.com.
Contact:
Carol Gottshall, Communications Manager, Tough Mudder
carol.gottshall@toughmudder.com
Caitlin Roller, Bratskeir & Company
croller@bratskeir.com
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