Amazon.com Named Official Retail Sponsor of the 2015 Olympia


American Media, Inc. Announces Amazon.com as “Official Retail Sponsor” of 2015 Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend
NEW YORK, August 20, 2015 /PRNewswire/ – American Media, Inc. (AMI) today announced that Amazon.com would be the official retail sponsor of the world famous Olympia Fitness & Performance weekend in 2015 – which is likely to be the highest attended weekend yet.

The 2015 Olympia Weekend is ‘Presented by’ title sponsor Ultimate Nutrition and will be ‘Brought to you’ by our new official retail sponsor Amazon.com. It consists of the Mr. Olympia bodybuilding competition and the Fitness & Performance Expo. Mr. Olympia offers fans a chance to see the world’s greatest bodybuilders in action. At the Expo, men and women with a passion for health and fitness can discover the latest nutritional supplements and try the newest workout gear. With a record setting 55,000 in attendance and over 1,000 exhibitor booths last year, the event continues to grow as even more fans and brands are expected in 2015. The Expo and competition will be held in Las Vegas at the Las Vegas Convention Center and the Orleans Arena on September 17-20.

The Amazon.com Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend sponsorship will include a considerable amount of features. For the Mr. Olympia competition, Amazon.com will be the exclusive sponsor of the live video stream, which generated 4 million views last year. And along with Ultimate Nutrition’s logo, the Amazon.com logo will be positioned alongside the official Olympia logo wherever it is displayed at the Orleans Arena and LVCC, including the main stage at the Expo where popular contests such as the Bikini Model Search, Men’s Model Search, Kick Boxing and the Strongman Challenge are held.

“With Amazon being the world’s premier online retailer, we couldn’t think of a better retail sponsor for the Mr. Olympia weekend. Amazon has shown a great appreciation for the sport of bodybuilding and the culture that has grown with it,” said AMI Chairman, CEO and President David Pecker. “This is a win-win for everyone, as Amazon will surely strengthen its presence amongst the fitness community while Olympia gets the ultimate retail sponsor.”

About American Media, Inc.
American Media, Inc. (AMI) owns and operates the leading print and digital celebrity and active lifestyle media brands in the United States. AMI’s titles include National Enquirer, Star, OK!, Globe, National Examiner, Soap Opera Digest, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Flex and Muscle & Fitness Hers. AMI also manages 14 different digital sites including RadarOnline.com, OKmagazine.com, MensFitness.com and MuscleandFitness.com. AMI’s magazines have a combined total circulation of 2.1+ million and reach more than 35 million men and women each month. AMI’s digital properties reach an average of 50 million unique visitors and 348 million page views monthly.



24 Hour Fitness Re-Launches Apex Product Line


24 Hour Fitness Re-Launches Apex Product Line
Simplified Ingredients, New, Clean Packaging and Bold, New Brand Image Revealed
SAN RAMON, Calif., Aug. 18, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Apex, the exclusive supplement brand of 24 Hour Fitness, is introducing new products that align more closely with consumer desire for product ingredient transparency and straightforward formulations. Produced in the U.S. under strict USDA guidelines, the product line benefits all ages and fitness levels.

The new Apex product formulations reduce the formerly lengthy ingredient list to as few as seven identifiable ingredients. Among the products launched are two protein powder formulations: 100% whey isolate and a whey concentrate/isolate blend, as well as fitness supplements that support performance. A vegan formulation is currently in development. “We invested significant time researching the latest advancements in formulations and flavoring, then collaborated with sports nutrition experts to develop clean products with clear purpose and exceptional taste,” said Andrew Dottermusch, Senior Director, Retail, 24 Hour Fitness. Aside from its role supporting the development of lean muscle, increasing evidence links whey protein supplementation to overall health, providing support to the immune system, and aiding in management of blood pressure and stress. With proper use, a protein supplement can also help curb appetite and support metabolic function, assisting with weight loss goals.*

In addition to new formulations, Apex will launch a bold, new brand image and modern packaging. The protein powder has been redesigned in a tall, two pound jug with clean lines and a built in handle—reusable and recyclable. The product is also available in single serve multi-packs—handy when traveling or on the go. Additional supplement powders feature a similar bold, modern packaging design and easy open cap.

While the attractive, new Apex product packaging represents an evolutionary brand advancement, it leaves plenty of room to showcase the simplified ingredient list, appealing taste, and broad range of flavors (Traditional–Classic Chocolate, Gourmet Vanilla, Fruit Punch, Unflavored; New-Tiramisu, Cookie Dough, Guava Lemongrass, to name a few).

Dottermusch added, “We conducted a national member survey to determine protein powder preferences and what motivates use. As a result, these are quality products at a great value that appeal to first-time buyers as well as those more experienced in the use of supplements. We want to take the mystery out of protein powder and supplements and are investing in educational tools and staff training to further consumer understanding, confidence and product use to serve all fitness levels and everyday life.”

Apex products are available in all clubs now with additional supplements, including vitamins, scheduled to launch in clubs by year end. Apex products contain no proprietary blends, and they are manufactured in the USA to conform to strict USDA production protocols. Additional information: apexfitness.com

*Statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

About 24 Hour Fitness
Headquartered in San Ramon, Calif., 24 Hour Fitness is a leading health club industry pioneer, serving nearly 4 million members in 450 clubs across the U.S. For more than 30 years, the company has been dedicated to helping members change their lives and reach their individual fitness goals. With convenient club locations, personal training services, popular group exercise classes and a variety of strength, cardio and functional training equipment, 24 Hour Fitness offers fitness solutions for everyone.



Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals Acquires LG Sciences


Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals Acquires LG Sciences Adding to its Premium Line Up of Sports Nutrition Brands
NORCROSS, Ga., Aug. 18, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals (“Hi-Tech”), a leading global provider of Sports Nutrition, Weight loss products, and Contract Manufacturing services, and LG Sciences (“LG”), one of the premier Sports Nutrition and Bodybuilding brands in the United States, today announced that Hi-Tech has acquired LG Sciences brand of Sports Nutrition products and Bodybuilding products. The transaction will continue to bolster Hi-Tech’s leading Sports Nutrition and Weight Loss arsenal and expand its position as the leader in Diet & Energy products and continues to add to its family of top tiered Sports Nutrition brands.

When LG Sciences (Legal Gear) was established about a decade ago, and over the years, LG Sciences has led the Sports Supplement industry in bodybuilding products, quality and innovation. LG Sciences is committed to introducing new, effective, and “Hardcore supplements backed by scienceâ„¢. Supplements that are backed by science and based on the concept of enhancing lean muscle mass and physical performance. LG Sciences was born out of the need for a quality, no-nonsense line of hardcore bodybuilding supplements designed for elite athletes. Unable to find products that met their standards in the mid 2000’s, the company’s founders created LG Sciences, with the goal of developing unsurpassed nutritional formulas to meet the demands of hardcore, competitive athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

LG Sciences employs a team consisting of a biochemist, chemical engineer, chemists, and many supplement experts to formulate all of our products. Innovation: LG Sciences continues to release a host of new compounds, many with patents pending, to take your training to the next level. All of our bodybuilding products are based on extensive research by well-respected experts. At LG Sciences, we have positioned ourselves for the future. We have developed a solid base of loyal customers who value the results of our products. Many of LG Sciences upcoming products were developed based on the feedback of our customers and retailers. Thanks to you, our customers. The future of LG Sciences is looking even brighter, with more great products and innovation now that we are joining the Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals team.

LG Sciences has been providing high-quality sports nutrition products to professional bodybuilders, elite athletes and fitness enthusiasts for a decade. LG Sciences has helped pioneer a sports-specific approach to athletes’ and bodybuilders nutrition. The acquisition of the LG Sciences brand of Bodybuilding and Sports Nutrition products accelerates Hi-Tech’s growth strategy, substantially boosts our Bodybuilding and Sports Nutrition portfolio and diversifies our business stream,” stated Hi-Tech, President and CEO Jared Wheat. “We believe this strategic transaction will enhance our industry-leading innovative Bodybuilding and Sports Nutrition position by expanding market opportunities. We manufacture products for many of the leading Sports nutrition brands, as well as our own family of brands, and believe we can add a lot of innovation to an already hardcore bodybuilding line.” Wheat continued, “Our strong operational structure and aggressive acquisition strategies have enabled the continued growth of our Sports Nutrition and Weight Loss business and will increase profit margins due to ability to bring the production of Innovative products to our industry-leading manufacturing facilities.”

As a leading provider of premium Bodybuilding products in the sports nutrition category, LG Sciences brands align with the company’s continued focus on Sports Supplements, while further diversifying the Hi-Tech portfolio. Innovative products such as 1-Androstenoloneâ„¢, 6-MASSâ„¢, 17-ProAndro, EpiAndroâ„¢, M-1D Androâ„¢, FORM-XTâ„¢, Natadrolâ„¢, Whey Pro , and EPICâ„¢- some of the top Bodybuilding and Sports Nutrition Aids in the industry, which will continue to bolster our Sports Nutrition and Bodybuilding portfolio such as: Anavar®, Dianabol®, Bulasterone®, Testosterone Depot®, Estrogenex®, Jack’D UPâ„¢, NitroPro®, and Phosphagen®.

Over the years, LG Sciences has led the nutritional supplement industry in new to market ingredients, quality and is amongst the leaders with product innovation. LG Sciences has also built lasting and profitable relationships with their private label customers, which is something LG Sciences began offering a few years ago. “This will tie in nicely with Hi-Tech’s goals and growth and offer LG Sciences private label customers many more option due to our massive manufacturing platform,” said Wheat.

Brandon Schopp, Vice-President of Contract manufacturing with Hi-Tech, commented, “Hi-Tech’s impeccable reputation for pharmaceutical-grade quality, strong innovation and manufacturing expertise make it a perfect complement to LG Sciences brand of Sports Nutrition products. Additionally, having access to our extensive production capabilities across a variety of product formats such as Liposomal Technology, Cyclosomeâ„¢ Technology that combines cyclodextrin and liposomal delivery systems; and Time-Released Monolithic Osmotic Pump (TMOP) delivery systems. We will also be able to offer energy shots and ready-to-drink beverages, and being able to offer our customers access to manufacturing and distribution facilities in Atlanta, Georgia and Reedsville, Pennsylvania is a significant competitive advantage.” The acquisition, in combination with an expansive capital investment program, will create world-class formulation, product development and production capabilities across in excess of 400,000 square feet of manufacturing space. “Compliance and enforcement have raised the bar for manufacturers, and this merger creates a top-tiered company with an incredible manufacturing scale and capabilities in an otherwise fragmented segment of the market. Hi-Tech and its Sports Nutrition brands will be a one-stop shop for Sports Nutrition stores,” said Schopp.

“LG Sciences products will serve as a growth catalyst for our Sports Supplement segment, providing this division with another leading brand in the high-growth sports nutrition category,” said Steve Smith, Executive Vice President at Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals. “The acquisition of LG Sciences expands our offerings of hardcore sports supplements, and broadens our appeal with younger consumers.” said Smith.

“Hi-Tech remains true to the principals that the company was built on – innovation, quality and consistency, and will always be dedicated to ensuring that these principals remain uncompromised. Hi-Tech will continue to provide the finest-quality, innovative, science-based Sports Nutritional supplements and Diet & Energy Aids,” says Wheat.

Other nutrition companies looking to increase scale, revenue, market share, and competitive advantage have also been active with mergers and acquisitions. Hi-Tech has been able to increase its market share in the United States through the acquisition of Florida-based Synergy Nutritional Industries in 2005, and gained a larger market share when it acquired Advanced Performance Supplements (“APS”) in 2011. Hi-Tech gained further industry dominance when it acquired Nittany Pharmaceuticals in Pennsylvania and ALR Industries in California in 2012. Hi-Tech’s recent strategy has been, and according to its leaders will continue to be, growth through M&A activity. In 2015, Hi-Tech has acquired Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Nutritionals, FormuTech Nutrition, Sports One®, Innovative Laboratories and with the most recent acquisition by Hi-Tech of LG Sciences it is the fifth acquisition for Hi-Tech and will not be the last of the year.

About Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals
Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals (https://www.hitechpharma.com/index.htm) is a leading Sports Nutrition manufacturer. Since 1979, Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and its sister company, Hi-Tech Nutraceuticals, LLC. have been providing quality custom manufacturing services to the pharmaceutical, dietary supplement and beverage industries. Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals is a cGMP certified company that operates out of Four (4) US Production facilities and (2) Warehouses, totally over 400,000 sq. ft. The two Georgia based production facilities are both located outside Atlanta in the Norcross and Suwanee Advanced Technology areas. Hi-Tech also has Two (2) facilities located outside State College, Pennsylvania. Hi-Tech holds a Drug Manufacturing License issued by the State of Pennsylvania Food and Drug Branch and is registered as a Food and Drug Establishment with the FDA in Pennsylvania.

Hi-Tech’s acquisition of Nittany immediately doubled Hi-Tech’s solid dose and powder square footage. The former Nittany facility is a 130,000 sq. ft. modern facility and was a full-service contract manufacturer that enjoyed continuous growth over the past 36 years in the nutrition and pharmaceutical industry. Another advantage of buying Nittany Pharmaceuticals was their intimate knowledge of liquid products. In 2008 Nittany purchased a 70,000-square-foot facility, which was a former Dean Foods facility in Bellville, Pennsylvania to add to their already growing liquid dietary supplements and beverages. As industry’s leading energy drink manufacturers for nearly over a decade, Nittany had the knowledge, experience and resources necessary to create Hot & Cold fill liquid drinks from 8 ounce to 32 ounces. “Hi-Tech had never been a beverage contract manufacturing company or handled many liquid products until the acquisition of Nittany. Now with the acquisition of Nittany – Hi-Tech is able to provide a full service of beverage co-packing services, including research and development, raw material procurement, product development, bottle filling, finished packaging, warehousing, and much more,” said Wheat.

Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals is a leading global healthcare supplier that develops, manufactures and distributes over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription pharmaceuticals, nutritional products, and consumer products. Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals is one of the world’s leading generics and branded pharmaceutical companies, providing products to customers throughout the world. The company maintains one of the industry’s broadest and highest quality product portfolios, which is regularly bolstered by an innovative and robust product pipeline. Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals has attained leading positions in key international markets through its wide array of dosage forms and delivery systems, significant manufacturing capacity, global commercial scale and a committed focus on quality and customer service. The company ranks among the top generics companies in several markets around the world and has among the largest capacity of U.S.-based manufacturers.

Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals is an enormously successful company that creates, manufactures and sells high-quality products sold by the large, major retailers across the United States. These retailers include: GNC, Rite Aid, Albertson’s, CVS, Duane Reade, Hannaford, Cardinal Health, McKesson, Mclain, Winn-Dixie, Harmon Stores, Fred Meyer, Osco Drugs, Supervalu, Roundy’s, Sav-On Drugs, Meijer, Fruth Pharmacy, Kinney Drug, Kinray, A&P, Kmart, Amazon.com, Drugstore.com, and over 5,000 independent drug stores, as well as in more than 80,000 convenience stores throughout the United States.



World Flying Disc Federation Receives Recognition by the Olympic Committee


International Olympic Committee grants full recognition to the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF)
WFDF is pleased to announce that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) today has granted full recognition to the World Flying Disc Federation at its 128th Session in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Established in 1985 and celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2015, the WFDF is composed of 62 national member associations on five continents. WFDF had received provisional recognition by the IOC in May 2013.

“The sport of Flying Disc has been granted full recognition by the International Olympic Committee today and WFDF is extremely honored and humbled by the decision and support shown by the IOC Session for our sport today. We are very thankful to the IOC membership, the Executive Board and its administration, in particular to the IOC Sport Department and staff, for their guidance and support during the period since WFDF was provisionally recognized by the IOC Executive Board in May 2013,” stated WFDF President Robert “Nob” Rauch.

“This is an incredible milestone in the 30 year history of WFDF and a further important step for our International Federation in the development of our sport worldwide. There could be no bigger anniversary present to WFDF, which was launched in August 1985, and we are looking forward to continuing to work with the IOC as our partner in promoting Flying Disc sports around the globe. Since 2013, we have successfully implemented most of the recommendations made by the IOC promulgating best practices for a sport IF,” continued Rauch. “Since 2013, we have established Continental Associations on all continents, increased number of WFDF national member associations to 62 and the number of associations recognized by the National Olympic Committees to 11, focused on the development of organized activity in Africa, modified the WFDF governance structures to increase the influence of athletes in the decision-making process, and further supported the global growth of Flying Disc sport. Today’s decision will give a further boost to our efforts to increasing the presence of Flying Disc sports in all countries and on all continents”

WFDF today represents 65 member associations in 62 countries and holds major World Championships in Ultimate Frisbee, Beach Ultimate, Guts, Disc Golf, Freestyle and Field events regularly in Open, Women`s and Mixed divisions of all age categories.



FDA Proposes Additional Revisions to the Nutrition Facts Label


July 24, 2015 – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is proposing additional revisions to the Nutrition Facts label for packaged foods. The supplemental proposal would, among other things, require declaration of the percent daily value (%DV) for added sugars. The proposed rule is a supplement to the March 3, 2014 proposed rule on updating the Nutrition Facts label. The percent daily value indicates how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet and would help consumers make informed choices for themselves and their families.

The percent daily value would be based on the recommendation that the daily intake of calories from added sugars not exceed 10 percent of total calories.

The 2015 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC) recently summarized scientific data related to added sugars. The FDA considered the scientific evidence that the DGAC used, which showed that it is difficult to meet nutrient needs while staying within calorie requirements if one exceeds 10 percent of total calories from added sugar, and has determined that this information supports this daily value for added sugars. The DGAC also recommended that Americans limit their added sugars intake to less than 10 percent of total calories. This and other recommendations from the DGAC, which is an independent advisory committee, will be considered in the development of the final 2015 Dietary Guidelines.

The FDA’s initial proposal to include the amount of added sugars on the Nutrition Facts label is now further supported by newly reviewed studies suggesting healthy dietary patterns, including lower amounts of sugar-sweetened foods and beverages, are strongly associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.

The FDA is also proposing to change the current footnote on the Nutrition Facts label to help consumers understand the percent daily value concept. In addition, the FDA is releasing results of its consumer studies on the declaration of added sugars and the footnote.

The FDA is seeking public comment on the proposal for 75 days. The agency continues to review comments received on the 2014 proposed rule and is reopening the comment period on its March 2014 proposal for 60 days to invite public comment on two consumer studies related to label formats. The agency will consider comments on the original and this supplemental proposed rule before issuing a final rule.

The FDA is accepting public comments starting July 27, 2015.

To electronically submit comments to the docket, visit http://www.regulations.gov.

To submit comments to the docket by mail, use the following address. Be sure to include docket number FDA-2012-N-1210 on each page of your written comments.

Division of Dockets Management HFA-305 Food and Drug Administration 5630 Fishers Lane, Room 1061 Rockville, MD 20852



New Chucks From Converse


2015 Chuck Allstars

The diehards of Hardbody Nation know that Chucks are great. Many meatheads from the casual to the serious love squatting or doing deadlifts in Chuck Taylor shoes. Will the new Chuck Taylor All Star shoes be a hit with the weightlifting world? We’ll keep you posted. Check out the video preview on our Facebook page.

CONVERSE USHERS IN NEW ERA WITH GROUND-BREAKING CHUCK TAYLOR ALL STAR II

The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II Sneaker is built for more with innovative comfort technology and premium materials.

Today, CONVERSE Inc. debuts the all new Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II, a contemporary adaptation of the exemplary Chuck Taylor All Star silhouette, for the first time overflowing with innovative Nike Lunarlon technology to support the always-on creative lifestyle. The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II is ready for more, boasting the most recognizable exterior attributes of the original Chuck Taylor All Star. Details include the unique white foxing, rubber toe-cap and statement All Star patch, while dialing up consumer-led features and benefits to deliver a comfortable and versatile premium sneaker for Chuck Taylor lovers everywhere.

“The Chuck Taylor All Star is one of the most legendary and iconic sneakers of all time,” said Jim Calhoun, Converse President and CEO. “The launch of Chuck II is a ground-breaking moment for Converse as we continue to move the brand forward through creativity and innovation, ushering in not just a new sneaker, but a completely new way of thinking.”

Since its debut in 1917, the Chuck Taylor All Star has become one of the world’s most celebrated sneakers, with fans, artists and musicians adopting the brand as a badge of creativity and self-expression. In creating the Chuck II, Converse obsessed over creative spirits around the world joining them on tour, in concert halls and art studios, on sidewalks and at all-night parties, and realized they wanted more. The Chuck Taylor All Star II is designed to meet the demands of the creative lifestyle and is built for the next generation of self-expression. Now, this beloved classic receives an innovative refresh, with product enhancements that stay true to the time-honored aesthetic while also providing modern comfort solutions in a premium execution.

“The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II is a sneaker that started with one simple notion: obsession,” said Richard Copcutt, Vice President/General Manager of Converse All Star. “We listened and took it to heart that people love their Chucks and want sneakers that are built to enable them to do more. The Chuck II is the full expression of this consumer obsession, staying true to the DNA of the original.”

The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II delivers:

  • Innovative features
    • Nike Lunarlon sockliner for superior full foot cushioning and arch support
    • Foam padded collar and non-slip gusseted tongue for 360-degree comfort
    • A perforated micro suede liner, for breathability during extended periods of wear.
  • Premium details

Constructed from durable premium canvas, the exterior of the Chuck Taylor All Star II elevates the sneaker’s most recognizable features with premium details including:

  • A fully embroidered All Star patch
  • On-trend high foxing
  • Monochrome matte eyelets

The new Fall 2015 Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II sneaker makes its debut on Tuesday, July 28, for a suggested retail price of $70 USD (ox) and $75 USD (hi-top) at Converse retail stores, select retailers and online at Converse.com, in the following colors: Black, White, Red and Blue.


ABOUT CONVERSE

Converse Inc., based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a wholly owned subsidiary of NIKE, Inc. Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”â„¢ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® shoe, the Jack Purcell® shoe and the One Star® shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including men’s, women’s and children’s footwear, apparel and accessories. Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 92 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, please visit Converse online at media.converse.com.



Under Armour Partners with USA Boxing


Under Armour Announces Official Partnership with USA Boxing through 2020 Olympic Games
Innovation Leader to Outfit All USA Boxing Divisions with Customized Apparel and Footwear
BALTIMORE, MD (July 21, 2015) – Under Armour (NYSE: UA) and USA Boxing announced today that the Baltimore, MD-based leader in athletic performance and innovation has been named the official performance partner of USA Boxing and will provide athletes at all levels of competition – Youth, Junior Olympic and Elite – with head-to-toe apparel and footwear. Under Armour will outfit the entire team with training and competition gear for the next six years, including the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo, respectively.

In an effort to help elevate USA Boxing’s performance in training and competition, Under Armour has developed a custom collection of boxing gear featuring Armourvent® technology that has been rigorously tested for high intensity action to maximize effectiveness in the ring. Under Armour has also developed the UA ClutchFitâ„¢ Title Hunter boxing boot which utilises UA ClutchFit technology to give each boxer a flexible feel with locked-in support enabling every movement.

“This partnership reflects the multitude of core values that Under Armour shares with USA Boxing, including Passion, Integrity and Will. Both our organizations exist to make all athletes better,” said Peter Murray, Vice President, Global Brand & Sports Marketing at Under Armour. “We are honored to support USA Boxing’s incredible legacy of building champions on the Olympic stage and beyond, as we work together to help strengthen the sport in the U.S. grassroots to elite levels.”

“USA Boxing is proud to partner with Under Armour, who has demonstrated a relentless commitment to supporting young athletes by providing them with the world’s most innovative performance gear. We look forward to many shared successes through the 2020 Olympic Games,” said Mike Martino, Executive Director, USA Boxing.

USA Boxing team members first appeared in Under Armour® uniforms and footwear at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto, Canada this past weekend. Additionally, Under Armour’s hometown of Baltimore will host USA Boxing’s second Trials Qualifying event September 7-12.

In addition to USA Boxing, Under Armour supports the Olympic pursuits of over 100 athletes from over 12 countries including USA Gymnastics, US Speedskating, Canada Rugby, Michael Phelps, Lindsey Vonn, Stephen Curry, Andy Murray and Jordan Spieth.

About Under Armour, Inc
Under Armour (NYSE: UA), the originator of performance footwear, apparel and equipment, revolutionized how athletes across the world dress. Designed to make all athletes better, the brand’s innovative products are sold worldwide to athletes at all levels. The Under Armour Connected Fitnessâ„¢ platform powers the world’s largest digital health and fitness community through a suite of applications: UA Record, MapMyFitness, Endomondo and MyFitnessPal. The Under Armour global headquarters is in Baltimore, Maryland.

About USA Boxing
USA Boxing’s mission is to enable United States’ athletes and coaches to achieve sustained competitive excellence, develop character, support the sport of boxing, and promote and grow Olympic style boxing in the United States. The responsibility of USA Boxing is not only to produce Olympic gold, but also oversee and govern every aspect of Olympic-style boxing in the United States. For more information on USA Boxing, go to www.usaboxing.org.



Europa Sports to Open Distribution Center in Las Vegas, NV


Europa Sports

New Operation Will Service Nevada, Arizona, Utah and Southern California Customers

LAS VEGAS, NV – Europa Sports Products is excited to announce the opening of its seventh warehouse and distribution center in Las Vegas, Nevada. The addition of the new strategically placed facility helps put Europa in a better position to support their Southwestern customers more efficiently, providing them with an even higher level of personal service.

With an integrated network of 7 distribution centers, Europa Sports now has a total combined inventory area of over 432,000 square feet. This national footprint allows Europa to develop multi-facility fulfillment solutions that deliver the hottest nutritional brands and products to most customers in 1-2 business days, using both standard shipping and route delivery.

“Helping our customers succeed is the hallmark of our business, and delivering the supplements they need in less time is just good business,” states Europa Sports Products CEO and Co-Founder, Eric Hillman.

The 46,000 square foot facility, located in Las Vegas, will allow Europa to improve delivery times to all customers in the gym, health food, and specialty supplement retailer markets. In addition to standard shipping services, Europa is also pleased to announce the addition of two new truck routes to its ever-growing fleet. These new routes will span from Las Vegas to Arizona as well as provide local same day service to Las Vegas.

For information and orders, contact Europa Sports Products at 1-800-447-4795, or on the web at EuropaSports.com.

About Europa Sports
Based in Charlotte, NC, Europa is recognized as the industry leader in the distribution of sports supplements, sports drinks and accessories to gyms, health food stores and specialty supplement retailers. Europa offers more than 7,000 unique items representing more than 300 of the industry’s leading brands. Now with seven locations strategically placed across the nation, Europa’s quick and complete deliveries allow businesses to keep “just in time” inventory. It’s just what businesses need to stay competitive and profitable. Europa is committed to excellence in service, product assortment and customer satisfaction.



FDA Gives Food Manufacturers 3 Years to Remove Trans Fats


The FDA takes step to remove artificial trans fats in processed foods
Action expected to reduce coronary heart disease and prevent thousands of fatal heart attacks every year

Based on a thorough review of the scientific evidence, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration today finalized its determination that partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs), the primary dietary source of artificial trans fat in processed foods, are not “generally recognized as safe” or GRAS for use in human food. Food manufacturers will have three years to remove PHOs from products.

“The FDA’s action on this major source of artificial trans fat demonstrates the agency’s commitment to the heart health of all Americans,” said FDA’s Acting Commissioner Stephen Ostroff, M.D. “This action is expected to reduce coronary heart disease and prevent thousands of fatal heart attacks every year.”

This determination will significantly reduce the use of PHOs, the major source of artificial trans fats, in the food supply. In 2013, the FDA made a tentative determination that PHOs could no longer be considered GRAS and is finalizing that determination after considering public comments.

Since 2006, manufacturers have been required to include trans fat content information on the Nutrition Facts label of foods. Between 2003 and 2012, the FDA estimates that consumer trans fat consumption decreased about 78 percent and that the labeling rule and industry reformulation of foods were key factors in informing healthier consumer choices and reducing trans fat in foods. While trans fat intake has significantly decreased, the current intake remains a public health concern. The Institute of Medicine recommends that consumption of trans fat be as low as possible while consuming a nutritionally-adequate diet.

“Studies show that diet and nutrition play a key role in preventing chronic health problems, such as cardiovascular disease and today’s action goes hand in hand with other FDA initiatives to improve the health of Americans, including updating the nutrition facts label,” said Susan Mayne, Ph.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. “This determination is based on extensive research into the effects of PHOs, as well as input from all stakeholders received during the public comment period.”

The FDA has set a compliance period of three years. This will allow companies to either reformulate products without PHOs and/or petition the FDA to permit specific uses of PHOs. Following the compliance period, no PHOs can be added to human food unless they are otherwise approved by the FDA.

The FDA encourages consumers seeking to reduce trans fat intake to check a food’s ingredient list for partially hydrogenated oils to determine whether or not a product contains PHOs. Currently, foods are allowed to be labeled as having “0” grams trans fat if they contain less than 0.5 grams of trans fat per serving, including PHOs, the primary dietary source of artificial trans fat in processed foods.

Many companies have already been working to remove PHOs from processed foods and the FDA anticipates that many may eliminate them ahead of the three-year compliance date.

The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.



U.S. Senator Probing Supplement Retailers


WASHINGTON (AP) — A high-ranking Senate Democrat is probing retailers and online companies about sales of dubious dietary supplements, especially those promising seniors protection from memory loss, dementia and other age-related problems.

The pills, tablets and formulas targeted by Senator Claire McCaskill bear names like “Brain Awake,” ”Dementia Drops” and “Food for the Brain,” which claims to ease “forms of dementia such as Alzheimer’s disease.”

In letters sent this week to 15 companies — including Wal-Mart, Target Corp., Amazon, Google and Walgreen’s — McCaskill asks executives to explain how they vet dietary supplements and weed out products making false claims. The Missouri Democrat is the ranking member on the Senate Aging Committee, which frequently investigates health scams targeting older Americans.

“Frankly, I think there’s a special place in hell for someone who markets a product and says it will cure Alzheimer’s,” McCaskill told The Associated Press. “And that’s essentially what these scammers are doing and they’ve had assistance in that.”

This is the latest probe into the $30 billion dietary supplement industry, which encompasses thousands of products and has long been plagued by questionable advertising, marketing and manufacturing practices. Supplements have never been subject to the same Food and Drug Administration regulations as prescription and over-the-counter drugs, which must be reviewed as safe and effective before being sold in the U.S.

Earlier this year, 14 state attorneys general asked Congress to investigate the herbal supplement industry. They pointed to DNA-based test results apparently showing that some store-brand supplements have none of the ingredients listed on their labels.

McCaskill’s probe focuses on supplements targeting seniors who are concerned about dementia. More than 5 million people in the U.S. suffer from Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There is no cure and prescription drugs only temporarily ease symptoms.

But rather than focusing on the supplements themselves, McCaskill’s investigation is probing how they make their way into consumers’ shopping carts and medicine cabinets.

In a letter to Wal-Mart CEO Doug McMillon, McCaskill asks for a briefing with the company to “better understand Wal-Mart’s policies and practices related to dietary supplements.”

A spokesman for the Bentonville, Arkansas-based company said in a statement: “We appreciate the opportunity to share information about our supplement business and look forward to cooperating with the committee as appropriate.”

A spokesman for the Kroger grocery chain said the company would respond to the senator. A spokeswoman for GNC said the company “has not had an opportunity to review Senator McCaskill’s inquiry but will respond directly in the appropriate form.”

McCaskill also requests meetings with Internet search engines, including Google Inc.

“As one of the leading search engines that now provides a retail function through Google Shopping, Google Inc. plays a pivotal role in determining what supplements are being used and trusted,” McCaskill writes in a letter to Google’s CEO, Larry Page. She requests details about how Google is compensated by supplement producers who advertise through the search engine and whether Google reviews customer complaints about such products.

Google declined to comment.

Companies are not legally required to comply with congressional requests, but they can be ordered to appear before Congress and turn over documents, when compelled by subpoena.

The new investigation shines light on how supplement makers skirt federal rules that are supposed to stop companies from marketing their products for specific diseases and conditions. A product called Eureka Intensified Focus, sold through Amazon, claims to “support and maintain memory, concentration and focus.” Another product available on Amazon, AloeMarine, is promoted to support “increased memory and brain function.”

A spokesman for Amazon Inc. declined to comment for this story.

Because the FDA does not review supplements, manufacturers are technically responsible for making sure their products are safe and truthfully advertised. Products making certain types of health claims are required to carry a disclaimer that “this statement has not been evaluated by the FDA,” though many supplements do not.

The FDA frequently sends warning letters to companies that appear to be violating federal rules, but the agency cannot withdraw a supplement from the market until it shows that it is unsafe. Attempts to pass new laws giving the FDA more authority over supplements have repeatedly been scuttled by industry lobbyists and their allies in Congress.

Despite the FDA’s limited powers, McCaskill suggests the agency could be doing more.

“They do have some authority here and we want to take a closer look at how they are using that authority,” she said.

For example, the FDA can penalize companies for failing to register their manufacturing facilities with the FDA, and for not notifying the FDA of side effects reported by customers.

In a letter to the FDA, McCaskill and Senate Aging Committee chair Susan Collins, R-Maine, ask the FDA to turn over a list of all FDA actions against companies violating those rules since December 2007. They also ask the FDA to turn over information about its review of new dietary supplement ingredients. The introduction of new ingredients is the one chance regulators have to evaluate supplements before they launch.

An FDA spokeswoman said in a statement the agency would respond directly to the Senators.



Body-For-Life Author Bill Phillips Joins Muscle Pharm


Denver based supplement company, Muscle Pharm announced that Bill Phillips will be joining MusclePharm as Strategic Advisor and Chief Editor of Content. In a press release issued today Muscle Pharm stated, “As a part of his scope, Mr. Phillips will also develop with MusclePharm a direct selling model aimed at the over 40 demographic — a segment that the Company has not yet had a significant penetration in. This is expected to be launched by early 2016.”

Bill Phillips Joins Muscle Pharm

Author of Body-for-LIFE and Former CEO/Owner of EAS Performance Nutrition Bill Phillips Joins MusclePharm

Phillips Will Serve as Strategic Advisor to Executive Team and Chief Editor of Content

DENVER, CO–(Marketwired – Jun 16, 2015) – MusclePharm Corporation (OTCQB: MSLP), a scientifically-driven, performance-lifestyle sports nutrition company announces fitness and bodybuilding pioneer Bill Phillips joining MusclePharm as Strategic Advisor and Chief Editor of Content. Mr. Phillips is one of the most credible voices in the world on fitness and brings with him three decades of experience and knowledge in the nutritional and supplement field and a proven leader in science-based products. As a part of his scope, Mr. Phillips will also develop with MusclePharm a direct selling model aimed at the over 40 demographic — a segment that the Company has not yet had a significant penetration in. This is expected to be launched by early 2016.

MusclePharm has set the standard in the industry with its commitment to the science and quality of its products. With Mr. Phillips as chief editor of content, he will help position the Company as a thought leader through an educational and motivational platform making fitness more accessible to everyone. This will allow the Company to better empower the prospective customer and convert them into a customer, expanding our base. As a part of his educational platform, he will work closely with the Company and MP’s Sports Science Institute (MPSSI) providing educational content on all of its multi-media platforms.

“I am honored and excited to join the MusclePharm Team for two primary reasons; first, I believe in their vision, and next, because of my previous experience as the CEO of EAS, I am confident I can offer key insight that will help MusclePharm reach its incredible potential,” said Bill Phillips, author of New York Times best seller Body-for-LIFE which has sold over six million copies worldwide.

In addition, Mr. Phillips will be Strategic Advisor to the CEO and the Executive Team. With his proven experience, he will provide advice and counsel as the company continues on its growth trajectory and is now entering its next stage of growth.

“Bill Phillips is one of the most credible voices in fitness coupled with his expertise in the science-based nutritional products business, he will be an asset to the company as we move to our next stage of growth,” said Brad Pyatt, founder and CEO of MusclePharm. “When I first founded MusclePharm, I viewed Bill Phillips as a mentor on how to build a company committed to helping people live healthier lives through science-based, quality products. I am looking forward to working with Bill as we expand to new customers who are looking to transform their lives.”

“At MusclePharm, we believe that everyone is an athlete,” added Mr. Pyatt. “Working with Bill Phillips, we will broaden our base to many more consumers who want to get into shape. We will be there to help bring out their inner-athlete and be a partner in their journey to live happier and healthier lives.”

Bill Phillips’ background in the fitness and supplement business and his years spent as the CEO and owner of EAS give him insight and strategies that he will share with MusclePharm’s young and ambitious management team. He will help maximize the company’s growth and profitability as it continues to set the standard in quality and science-based products. Mr. Phillips sold EAS for $320 million in 2004 to pharmaceutical giant Abbot Labs.

“I feel at home here at MusclePharm because they share my same vision, which is to advance the science of sports supplements for the benefit of athletes and fitness enthusiasts everywhere,” added Mr. Phillips.

Bill Phillips speaks to a new market for MusclePharm with those seeking not only a better body, but a better quality of life, greater longevity, and increased energy. He will focus on motivating and inspiring people from all walks of life to get off the sidelines and back into the game. He believes that fitness is the best medicine, especially for men and women over 40 years old.

For more on Billl Phillips, please go to http://www.musclepharm.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Bill-Phillips-Fact-Sheet.pdf.

About Bill Phillips
Bill Phillips is one of the major pioneers of the bodybuilding and fitness industry and the true godfather of modern sports supplementation, as we know it today. Mr. Phillips is the author of Body-for-LIFE which has sold over 6 million copies worldwide, and spent more than five years on the New York Times Best Sellers List. Body-for-LIFE brought millions of people to strength training for the first time. Phillips also authored New York Times Best Selling Books: Eating for Life, Body for Life Success Journal, and Transformation. Mr. Phillips was the CEO and owner of EAS Performance Nutrition, which introduced the fitness world to breakthrough products including: creatine, HMB, CLA, Whey Protein Isolate, Myoplex, etc. In 2000, Phillips sold a portion of the company to North Castle Partners for $160 million and in 2004 sold the entire company to Abbot Labs for $320 million.

About MusclePharm Corporation (OTCQB: MSLP)
MusclePharm® is a scientifically driven, performance lifestyle company that currently develops, manufactures, markets and distributes branded nutritional supplements. The company offers a complete range of powders, capsules, tablets and gels. Its portfolio of recognized brands, including MusclePharm® Hybrid and Core Series, Arnold Schwarzenegger Series™ and FitMiss™, are marketed and sold in more than 120 countries and available in over 45,000 retail outlets globally. These clinically-proven and scientific nutritional supplements are developed through a six-stage research process utilizing the expertise of leading nutritional scientists, doctors and universities. MusclePharm is the innovator of the sports nutrition industry. For more information, visit www.musclepharm.com. Follow MusclePharm Corporation on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Photo via Bill Phillips Facebook.



Dane Jackson Wins First Title of the 2015 GoPro Mountain Games


Kayaking Go Pro Mtn Games
Things kicked off today at the 2015 GoPro Mountain Games in Vail, Colorado. Dane Jackson stepped up big by winning the first title of the Games. We’ll be in Vail this weekend for the GoPro Mountain Games and reporting live throughout the weekend.


Dane Jackson Takes Steep Creek Title in Day One of the GoPro Mountain Games

Jackson Wins First of Nine Whitewater Events

June 4, 2015 (Vail, Colo.) – Dane Jackson lived up to the high standards of his family name today, taking top honors at the first event of the 2015 GoPro Mountain Games: The Coors Light Steep Creek Championships. Jackson is among the many athletes to watch during the four-day festival, and will continue to compete in nine other Coors Light whitewater competitions this weekend, including the Kayak Freestyle, the Down River Kayak Sprint and the Tudor Ultimate River Challenge.

In the women’s Steep Creek Championships, Nouria Newman of France edged out 14-year-old Sage Donnelly for the win. All four female competitors ran impressively clean lines through the intimidating stretch of class V whitewater on Homestake Creek.

“Last year we had a lot of swimmers, but this year we saw a lot of really clean lines and great runs,” said Clay Wright, Coors Light Steep Creek Championships announcer. “The women had zero swimmers, and there were more fast men here than we’ve had in a long time. For the men, Nick Troutman’s early lead was knocked off by paddler after paddler. It was a really close finals.”

Gerd Serrasolses of Spain took home second place in the men’s competition followed by Cole Moore from Maryland. Newman’s win was followed by Adriene Levknecht from Nevada in second place and Hayley Stuart from Denver taking home third place.

The whitewater competition moved to Vail Village in the afternoon with Freestyle qualifiers on Gore Creek. The Jack Link’s International Slackline Invitational presented by Slackline Industries also kicked off at Solaris with the best of the best competing to take home a piece of the $10,000 price purse.

KIND Adventure Village at Golden Peak opened in the afternoon with DockDogs Outdoor Big Air practice and the first few waves of preliminary competition. Children also enjoyed complimentary climbing and kayaking provided by Avid4 Adventure in the KIND Kids Adventure Village. The afternoon wound down with free yoga by Vail Vitality Center at Mountain Plaza and a group run with nine-time USA National Mountain Running Champion Joseph Gray.

The first day ended with DJ Dojah entertaining during après activities, GoPro Outdoor Reels in Mountain Plaza and a free concert by Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe presents Run DMC Remixed.

Day two of the GoPro Mountain Games starts with free yoga in Gear Town at Solaris. Other highlights include DockDogs, the men’s and women’s Bouldering World Cup qualifier, Coors Light Raft Cross qualifiers and finals, as well as the Rocky Dog Trail Run. Families can enjoy a number of great kid-friendly, free activities such as rock climbing and kayaking at KIND Kids Adventure Village in Golden Peak. The evening will wind up with a free concert by headliner Iration with opening act Natty Vibes, in the heart of Vail Village, and the GoPro Outdoor Reels kicking off at 8pm in Mountain Plaza.

# # #

About the GoPro Mountain Games/Vail Valley Foundation

The GoPro Mountain Games is a project of the Vail Valley Foundation. The Vail Valley Foundation is a Colorado 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, dedicated to enriching the Vail Valley and sustaining its unique spirit through the delivery of unparalleled arts, world class athletics and inspiring education programs throughout the community. For additional information on the GoPro Mountain Games, please visit http://www.mountaingames.com. For the Vail Valley Foundation, please visit www.vvf.org.

Connect with the Mountain Games on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

About GoPro, Inc. (NASDAQ:GPRO) 

GoPro, Inc. is transforming the way people capture and share their lives. What began as an idea to help athletes self-document themselves engaged in their sport has become a widely adopted solution for people to capture themselves engaged in their interests, whatever they may be. From extreme to mainstream, professional to consumer, GoPro enables the world to capture and share its passion. And in turn, the world has helped GoPro become one of the most exciting and aspirational companies of our time.

For more information, visit www.gopro.com or connect with GoPro on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest or LinkedIn.

GOPRO® and HERO® are trademarks or registered trademarks of GoPro Inc. in the United States and other countries.

Photo Credit – Ben Markhart


NBC Sports Group Presents the 2015 AVP Tour


NBC SPORTS GROUP TO SERVE UP FIRST TELECAST OF 2015 AVP TOUR WEDNESDAY AT 12 AM ET ON NBCSN
Stamford, Conn. – May 22, 2015 – NBC Sports Group and The AVP (Association of Volleyball Professionals) Pro Beach Volleyball Tour will present the AVP New Orleans Open, the first AVP Tour telecast of the 2015 season, this Wednesday at 12 a.m. ET on NBCSN.

NBCSN’s telecast will kick off the AVP’s 2015 season, as beach volleyball’s biggest stars take to the sand in Laketown in Kenner, La. for three days of main draw play, May 22-24. Players scheduled to compete include three-time Olympic gold medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings and her partner, silver medalist April Ross; two-time Olympian Jake Gibb and his partner, Casey Patterson; Olympic gold medalist Phil Dalhausser and his partner, two-time Olympian Sean Rosenthal; and rising stars Theo Brunner, Tri Bourne, Summer Ross, Emily Day, Lane Carico.

Coverage of the AVP New Orleans Open will mark the first two hours of more than 17 hours of AVP Tour coverage airing on NBC and NBCSN in 2015, and the first event as part of the AVP’s and NBC Sports Group’s new multi-year media rights agreement.

Veteran broadcaster Paul Sunderland (play-by-play), Olympic gold medalist Dain Blanton (analyst), and beach volleyball Olympian and three-time All-American Kevin Wong (analyst) will be onsite to call the action from New Orleans. Blanton, Wong and Chris Marlowe (play-by-play) will manage duties for all other AVP telecasts on NBC and NBCSN this season.

NBC Sports Group’s schedule for the 2015 AVP Tour (all times ET, subject to change):

Date Time Network Event
Wednesday, May 27* 12 – 2 a.m. NBCSN AVP New Orleans Open
Saturday, June 20 4 – 6 p.m. NBC FIVB St. Petersburg Grand Slam
Sunday, June 21 2 – 4 p.m. NBCSN FIVB St. Petersburg Grand Slam
Sunday, June 21 4 – 6 p.m. NBC FIVB St. Petersburg Grand Slam
Sunday, July 19 1:30 – 3 p.m. NBC AVP New York City Open
Sunday, August 9 4:30 – 6 p.m. NBC AVP Seattle Open
Sunday, August 16 4:30 – 6 p.m. NBC AVP Manhattan Beach Open
Sunday, August 30 4:30 – 6 p.m. NBC AVP Chicago Open
Sunday, September 6 7 – 9 p.m. NBCSN AVP Cincinnati Open
Sunday, September 13 3 – 4:30 p.m. NBCSN AVP Huntington Beach Open

* – Coverage will air at 7 pm ET if NHL Playoffs coverage is not necessary.

As announced in April, the AVP and NBC Sports Group’s new partnership is the most comprehensive media partnership in Tour history. It returns the country’s premier professional beach volleyball tour, entering its 33rd year, to the network that first televised the AVP 25 years ago, and calls for 17.5 hours of coverage in 2015, 10 on NBC and 7.5 on NBCSN, plus live streaming on NBC Sports Live Extra.

Coverage will include the men’s and women’s finals of all seven regular-season tournaments. In addition, NBC and NBCSN will feature the finals and early-round coverage of an AVP-run tournament on the international FIVB (Federation International de Volleyball) World Tour within the United States. Encore presentations of select telecasts will air on Universal Sports Network.

Marlowe, a veteran of four consecutive Olympic telecasts on NBC, called play-by-play for NBC’s coverage of beach volleyball at the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games and at every major volleyball event since 1981 – including the AVP Tour when it was last televised on NBC. A talented indoor and beach player, Marlowe won eight tournaments on the sand, including two prestigious AVP Manhattan Beach Opens, and captained the gold medal-winning United States Olympic Volleyball team in 1984.

Two-time Olympian Blanton won beach volleyball gold at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney with partner Eric Fonoimoana and is one of the most decorated players in AVP Tour history.

Wong made his pro beach volleyball debut on the AVP Tour in 1995. He represented the U.S. at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and notched seven career victories on the AVP before retiring from competition in 2009. In 2012, he served as NBC’s beach volleyball analyst, alongside Marlowe, at the Summer Games in London.



Inergetics and Muscle Maker Grill Launch New Product Line of Booster Supplements


Inergetics and Muscle Maker Grill Launch New Product Line of Booster Supplements
NEWARK, N.J., May 19, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Inergetics, Inc. (OTCBB: NRTI), a world-class developer of nutritional and consumer health products, today announced the launch of a new product line of booster supplements at Muscle Maker Grill locations across the U.S.

The Muscle Maker Grill booster supplements are intended to meet the growing consumer demand for customized smoothies and protein shakes as well as help Muscle Maker Grill franchisees expand their drink menu and profitability.

“We are excited to grow our partnership with Muscle Maker Grill, the leading fast casual chain that shares our company’s focus on promoting health and fitness,” said Jim Kras, CMO of Inergetics. “This new product line will allow Muscle Maker Grill to sell its branded booster products as a retail item direct to consumers opening a whole new sales channel for the franchisees.”

Inergetics will continue to support the new product offerings with free in-store promotional materials.

About Inergetics, Inc.
Inergetics’ portfolio of brands includes: Martha Stewartâ„¢ Essentials, a complete line of NSF® Certified, whole-food-based supplements created specifically for women; Surgex® Sports Nutrition, the preferred nutritional supplement of Army Sports; Bikini Ready®, a leader in active lifestyle solutions; SlimTrim, the affordable, premium value diet brand; OmEssentials®, a line of scientifically advanced nutritional supplements designed to further the health and wellness of yoga practitioners and active individuals; and Nuliefâ„¢, a line of Cannabidiol (CBD)-based nutritional supplements. Inergetics’ brands are available domestically and internationally at thousands of premier locations including Akins, Bed Bath & Beyond, Bi-Lo, Cardinal Health, Discount Drug Mart, Drug Emporium, Fruth Pharmacy, H-E-B, Harmon, Harris Teeter, Harveys, Ingles, Lewis Drugs, Meijer, Navarro Pharmacies, Price Chopper, PriceSmart, Schnucks Markets, ShopRite, Walgreens, Weis Markets, Whole Foods and Winn-Dixie as well as leading e-tailers such as Amazon, Bodybuilding.com, Bulu Box, CVS.com, Drugstore.com, iHerb, LuckyVitamin.com, Swanson, Vitacost and Zulily.

To learn more about Inergetics, visit www.inergetics.com, and the Inergetics brands’ websites at: www.marthastewartessentials.com, www.surgexsports.com, www.surgexsportsblitz.com, www.slimtrim1.com, www.bikinireadylifestyle.com, www.kahunasands.com, www.omessentials.com, and www.nuliefcbd.com.

About Muscle Maker Grill
Muscle Maker Grill is one of the country’s fastest-growing franchises with 57 units in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Muscle Maker Grill has sold 200 units nationwide to date. It enjoys food service sales from its large menu of low-calorie, protein-packed healthful fare, as well as retail sales of protein supplements and packaged foods from retail sections within each restaurant. The chain’s management seeks our restaurant sites inside or near to health clubs and fitness centers, which puts Muscle Maker in proximity to its target customer base-consumers committed to healthy lifestyles. To learn more about Muscle Maker Grill, visit www.musclemakergrill.com.

Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, those with respect to the objectives, plans and strategies of Inergetics set forth herein and those preceded by or that include the words “believes,” “expects,” “given,” “targets,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “projects,” “forecasts,” or similar expressions, are “forward-looking statements.” Although Inergetics’ management believes that such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot guarantee that such expectations are, or will be, correct. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, which could cause Inergetics’ future results to differ materially from those anticipated. Inergetics assumes no obligation to update any of the information contained or referenced in this press release.

SOURCE Inergetics, Inc.



Vitamin Shoppe, Inc. Announces First Quarter 2015 Results


Vitamin Shoppe, Inc. Announces First Quarter 2015 Results

NORTH BERGEN, N.J.  – Vitamin Shoppe, Inc. (NYSE:  VSI), a multi-channel specialty retailer and manufacturer of nutritional products, today announced preliminary results for the three months ended March 28, 2015. Total net sales in the first quarter increased 9.4% to $336.8 million compared to $307.8 million in the same period of the prior year.  Reported fully-diluted earnings per share in first quarter 2015 were $0.63, compared with $0.67 in first quarter 2014.

Commenting on the quarter’s results, Colin Watts, recently appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Company stated, “Our first quarter results were both below our expectations and were disappointing due to a combination of external headwinds and margin pressure. We are working quickly to strengthen the core business and develop new growth opportunities.  As a trusted, leading health and wellness retailer, we have confidence in our ability to deepen our relationships with our customers and to improve business performance going forward.”

First Quarter 2015 Results
Sales growth in the quarter was driven by: 1) Total comparable sales of 1.2%, 2) growth from non-comp stores, and 3) manufacturing revenue of $14.0 million.  Retail comparable sales were 1.5% and ecommerce sales were down 90 basis points.

Cost of goods sold, which includes product, distribution, manufacturing and store occupancy costs, increased $23.8 million, or 12.0%, to $222.2 million for the three months ended March 28, 2015, compared with $198.4 million for the three months ended March 29, 2014.

Gross profit increased $5.2 million, or 4.7%, to $114.6 million for 2015 first quarter, compared with $109.5 million for first quarter 2014.  Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 34.0% for the quarter ended March 28, 2015, compared to 35.6% in first quarter 2014. The decrease was mainly attributable to product mix, increased promotional activity, deleverage on store occupancy costs and the impact of Nutri-Force.

Selling, general and administrative expenses (SG&A), including operating payroll and related benefits, advertising expense and depreciation and amortization increased $8.5 million, or 11.3%, to $83.7 million for the quarter ended March 28, 2015, compared with $75.2 million for the quarter ended March 29, 2014.  SG&A includes approximately $0.4 million of acquisition-related costs.  SG&A for first quarter 2014 included acquisition related expenses for Super Supplements and manufacturing consulting costs of approximately $1.8 million.  Reported SG&A as a percentage of net sales was 24.8% for first quarter 2015 compared with 24.4% in first quarter 2014.  Excluding non-operating items for both periods, SG&A as a percent of revenue was 24.7% in first quarter 2015 and 23.9% in first quarter 2014. This increase in SG&A rate was mainly driven by higher store payroll, digital advertising costs and depreciation and amortization expense.

Income from operations in first quarter 2015 of $31.0 million compared to $34.2 million in the same period of the prior year.  As a percentage of net sales, income from operations was 9.2% for first quarter 2015 compared with 11.1% for first quarter 2014.  Adjusted for non-operating costs in both periods, income from operations as a percentage of sales was 9.3% in first quarter 2015 and 11.7% in first quarter 2014.

Net income was $18.7 million for first quarter 2015 compared to $20.5 million in the same period of the prior year.  Reported earnings per diluted share were $0.63 in first quarter 2015 compared with $0.67 in first quarter 2014.  Adjusted EPS was $0.63 for first quarter 2015 and $0.70 for first quarter 2014.

Balance Sheet and Cash Flow
Cash and equivalents at March 28, 2015 were $1.9 million and $18.0 million was drawn on the revolver.

Capital expenditures were $11.3 million in the quarter. Funds were primarily expended on new stores and IT investments.

During the quarter, under the company’s previously announced $100 million share buyback program, the company repurchased 400,000 shares of its common stock for a total purchase price of $16.5 million.  As of March 28, 2015, 1,672,039 shares have been repurchased for a total of $74.4 million.

Subsequent Event.  The Board of Directors has authorized another share repurchase program that enables the company to purchase an additional $100 million of its shares of common stock over the next three years.  Shares will be repurchased from time-to-time in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions.  The repurchase program does not obligate the Company to acquire any specific number of shares and may be suspended, terminated or modified at any time for any reason, including market conditions, the cost of repurchasing shares, the availability of alternative investment opportunities, liquidity, and other factors deemed appropriate. These factors may also affect the timing and amount of share repurchases.

2015 Outlook
In view of first quarter 2015 results and recent trends, management now expects the following for 2015:

  • Net sales increase of 6% to 8%
  • Total comparable sales growth, including e-commerce, in the low single digits for the year
  • Approximately 60 new stores
  • Earnings per diluted share of approximately $2.05 to $2.25 for the full-year. This assumes completion of the 2014 share buyback program.

Webcast
Management will host a conference call to discuss the first quarter 2015 results at 8:30a.m. Eastern Time (ET) today.  Interested investors and other parties may listen to the simultaneous webcast of the conference call by logging onto the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website at www.vitaminshoppe.com. A telephonic replay will be available beginning at 11:30a.m. ET on May 6, 2015and can be accessed by dialing 1-877-870-5176 or 1-858-384-5517 for international callers. The passcode for the replay is 5621899.The replay will be available until 11:59 p.m. ET on May13, 2015.  The webcast will also be archived on the company’s website at www.vitaminshoppe.com in the investor relations section.

About the Vitamin Shoppe, Inc. (NYSE: VSI)
Vitamin Shoppe is a multi-channel specialty retailer and contract manufacturer of nutritional products based in North Bergen, New Jersey.  In its stores and on its websites, the Company carries one of the most comprehensive retail assortments in the industry, including vitamins, minerals, specialty supplements, herbs, sports nutrition, homeopathic remedies, green living products, and beauty aids.  In addition to offering 900 national brand products, the Vitamin Shoppe also carries products under The Vitamin Shoppe®, BodyTech®,True Athlete®, MyTrition®, plntTM, ProBioCareTM, Next StepTM, Betancourt and Nutri-Force Sports®brands.  The Vitamin Shoppe conducts business through more than 700 company-operated retail stores under The Vitamin Shoppe, Super Supplements and Vitapath retail banners, and primarily through its website, www.VitaminShoppe.com.Follow the Vitamin Shoppe on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/THEVITAMINSHOPPE and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/VitaminShoppe.

Forward Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release are “forward-looking statements”. Such forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current expectations or beliefs concerning future events and actual results of operations may differ materially from historical results or current expectations. Any such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including the strength of the economy, changes in the overall level of consumer spending, the performance of the Company’s products within the prevailing retail environment, trade restrictions, availability of suitable store locations at appropriate terms, the availability of raw materials, compliance with regulations, certifications and best practices with respect to the development, manufacture, sales and marketing of the company’s products and other factors which are further described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 27, 2014 and in all filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission made by the Company subsequent to the filing of the Form 10-K.  The Company does not undertake to publicly update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required to do so by law.



Nike Inspires Women to Get Active


nike mexico

For the first-time in Mexico, Nike offered a women’s-only 21K race for 5,000 women.

WOMEN TAKE TO THE STREETS OF MEXICO CITY EMPOWERED BY MOVEMENT AND COMMUNITY
Following the launch of Nike’s #betterforit initiative to inspire women to get active, Nike hosted two days of sweat-drenched activities in Mexico City just for her. More than 6,500 women hit their #betterforit milestones with a five-hour Nike+ Training Club (N+TC) experience and a 21K race.

The Mexico City N+TC Tour stop, at the iconic World Trade Center building, saw 1,500 women at six different workouts, which ranged from NTC to Adrenaline Hit.

The events are the latest step toward Nike’s long-standing commitment to help women achieve their personal goals. The participants in Mexico City added kilometers to their Nike+ Running App and achieved multiple training sessions with the N+TC App over the last three months of training.

At part of the Mexico City N+TC Tour stop, at the iconic World Trade Center building, 1,500 women raised their heart rates at six different breakout workouts, which ranged from NTC to Adrenaline Hit.

“The space buzzed with an amazing energy — there was never a lull. It was inspiring to see women of all fitness levels push and help one another to finish,” said Flor Beckmann, a Nike Master Trainer who has been leading the N+TC Tour across the globe.

Additionally, and for the first time in Mexico, Nike offered a women’s-only 21K race for 5,000 women. The starting line at Fuente de la Diana Cazadora (Fountain of Diana the Hunter) served as an immediate tribute to women. It is one of the few monuments in the city that celebrates women’s freedom, and one of the most relevant pieces of Mexican art near Paseo de la Reforma. The race route touched other symbols of the city such as the Angel de la Independencia statue, and then crossed over the Bosque de Chapultepec, the large forest in the heart of the city. The highest point of the circuit reached 2,383 meters above sea level. Road bicycle racer Ingrid Drexel and heptathlete Jessamyn Sauceda cheered on the field.

“As an athlete, I embrace the competitive mindset. It’s as much about the other athletes as it’s about competing with myself, pushing myself to really go for it,” said Sauceda. “Looking at that field of women, I felt that drive from them — the unrelenting mindset to go for it and be better because of it.”

Mexico Nike Women

The winner of the 21K race, Karina Pérez, broke her personal best after reaching the finish line in 1 hour and 24 minutes. “The best prize was to have conquered my mind. Nothing in life is easy. Life is full of challenges and this race was not easy, but I overcame my challenge, crossing the finish line winning the Nike Mexico 21K,” said Pérez, an elite runner from Tlaxcala who has been running professionally for the last nine years.

#BETTERFORIT JOURNEY

As part of the training journey that led up to the race, Nike offered two Run Clubs dedicated to women that attracted more than 2,500 participants. These run clubs also included special functional training sessions with N+TC. Athletes also found support through Nike’s digital community of nearly 70 million women. The Nike+ ecosystem, which includes the Nike+ Running App and N+TC App, provides customized running and training programs to help women reach their goals.

This weekend’s events help drive the women’s sport movement to grow and evolve, both as women bond with one another and as Nike expands the sport and fitness lifestyle in new places. Connecting to a global community of female athletes, #betterforit stands out as Nike’s largest initiative to support and motivate women’s athletic journeys. To learn more, visit nike.com/women.

If you’re brave enough to try, you’re strong enough to finish.

#betterforit

Story and Images Via Nike



Four New Events Added to 2015 GoPro Mountain Games


Go Pro Mtn Games

With close to 15 years behind it and a forward-looking approach to keep innovating year after year, the GoPro Mountain Games event organizers are pleased to announce four new events for participation and spectating this year: Coors Light S2 Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Cross, Coors Light Down River R2 Raft Sprint, The Tudor Ultimate River Challenge and Vibram Disc Golf.

The continued growth and success of the GoPro Mountain Games requires the event to expand into a new full day of competition and festival activity on Thursday, June 4.

“We experienced significantly larger crowds on Thursday last year which reflects a desire to start the weekend earlier and enjoy all that the event has to offer. In response to this growth and demand, we will open Gear Town, Adventure Village, and River Town on Thursday and hold a selection of events, demos, group rides and free activities. All the fun and excitement of GoPro Mountain Games now starts one day earlier,” said Mike Imhof, Senior Vice President of Sales & Development at the Vail Valley Foundation.

New events being added in 2015 include the S2 SUP Cross. Similar to the existing and popular SUP cross event, S2 SUP Cross will add a tandem component. Teams of two will battle it out head-to-head on C4 Waterman Raptor boards in this every-man/woman-for-themselves-format. The first team of two that survives the sprint through Vail Village and Vail’s Whitewater Park will take the top spot on the podium. Teams must cross the finish line together, and on their boards.

Identical in format to the Down River Kayak and SUP Sprints, the R2 Raft Sprint is a four mile raft race (two person rafts) on the Class II/III whitewater of Gore Creek from East Vail to the Covered Bridge in Vail Village. With a rally race format, rafters drop at timed intervals and teams will be racing against the clock.

To complement the new water events, this year for the first time GoPro Mountain Games organizers will name an Ultimate Riverman and Ultimate Riverwoman. To be crowned victor of the Ultimate River Challenge, competitors must compete, back-to-back-to-back, in the Down River Kayak Sprint, Down River SUP Sprint and Down River R2 Raft Sprint on Gore Creek. The Ultimate Riverman & Ultimate Riverwoman will be crowned based on the lowest combined time in all three events.

And finally, a sport that previously saw casual participation, as a demo or expo village activity, will be formerly instated into the event line up as Disc Golf becomes an official competition of the GoPro Mountain Games, complete with a prize purse. Disc Golf – described most simply as traditional golf with a Frisbee®, will be offered with a GoPro Mountain Games twist. Competitors will need to survive two qualifying rounds before actually playing a round of disc golf. Qualifiers will consist of various skills competitions in the heart of Vail Village. Players with the best skills in qualifying will step up and play a round of golf to be crowned champions at a to-be-determined course.

“Though the Mountain Games is a well-established event in Vail and throughout the mountain sports community, we are constantly looking at ways to incorporate new mountain events, activities and participants,” said Imhof. “These four new events will enhance an already dynamic weekend of competing and spectating for our athletes and guests.”

Registration and lodging for the 2015 GoPro Mountain Games are available at www.gopromountaingames.com. Participants are encouraged to register early to save on costs. Spectating at the GoPro Mountain Games and all concerts are free and open to the public.

About the GoPro Mountain Games/Vail Valley Foundation
The GoPro Mountain Games is a project of the Vail Valley Foundation. The Vail Valley Foundation is a Colorado 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, dedicated to enriching the Vail Valley and sustaining its unique spirit through the delivery of unparalleled arts, world class athletics and inspiring education programs throughout the community. For additional information on the GoPro Mountain Games, please visit http://www.mountaingames.com. For the Vail Valley Foundation, please visit www.vvf.org.

Connect with the Mountain Games on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

About GoPro, Inc. (NASDAQ:GPRO)
GoPro, Inc. is transforming the way people capture and share their lives. What began as an idea to help athletes self-document themselves engaged in their sport has become a widely adopted solution for people to capture themselves engaged in their interests, whatever they may be. From extreme to mainstream, professional to consumer, GoPro enables the world to capture and share its passion. And in turn, the world has helped GoPro become one of the most exciting and aspirational companies of our time.

For more information, visit www.gopro.com or connect with GoPro on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest or LinkedIn.

GOPRO® and HERO® are trademarks or registered trademarks of GoPro Inc. in the United States and other countries.



2015 Drake Relays Includes Women’s Masters Invitational


DES MOINES, Iowa, April 23, 2015  – The world-renowned Drake Relays will include a Masters Invitational Women’s 800m (Final), at Drake Stadium, 11:17 AM this Saturday, April 25.  The stadium is at 2719 Forest Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa  50311.  The star-studded field includes several age-group World and American record holders in the 400-800 and Olympic Trials qualifiers.

Mark Cleary, USATF Masters Invitational Chair, said, “We are hoping for a new meet record to come out of this field. It’s our largest field yet. Great weather is forecasted, 62 to 64 degrees.”

Drake Relays Facts:

  • 327,429 Athletes have competed within the 102 year history.
  • Overall attendance for Drake Relays has reached 2,541,417 people.
  • Saturday Sessions at Drake have sold out for 46 Consecutive Years.
  • Between Drake Relays Staff, Volunteers, Track Officials, and Support Staff, over 1,144 people put in a collective total of approximately 224,220 hours yearly.

Masters 800 Women’s Invitational Names  (Age) Affiliation, Hometown  Notes

Felicia Bishop, (Age 47) Ronald McDonald House of Providence Running Club, Barrington, Rhode Island

Chris Gentile, (Age 45) The Janes Elite Racing, Castle Rock, Colorado, defending champion.  Chris’s winning time last year was 2:24.9. Chris ran for Villanova University.  She qualified for the 800, and the 1500 Meter Olympic trials in 2000, at Sacramento, CA.

Alisa Harvey , (Age 49) RIADHA, Manassas, Virginia, Event Record Holder, with a time of 2:17.78.  She ran at the Olympic trials in New Orleans in ’91 (1500 Meter Run, sixth place), and is the Current Masters World Record holder for the Indoor 800 (W45-49), and the Indoor American Record holder in the 800 (W40-44). She also holds the Outdoor American Record in the 800 (W40-44), and (W45-49) with a time of 2:13.67.

Kate Maurer, (Age 43) Ankeny, Iowa, she attended the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Donna Mills, (Age 50) Orange City, IA, unattached.

Kara Parker, (Age 45) St.Paul, Minnesota, former track star for the University of Minnesota.

Christine Price, (Age 46) Runablaze Iowa, Des Moines, Iowa, second place last year in this race.

Charmaine Roberts, (Age 47) Athena, Washington, District of Columbia. Current Masters World Indoor Champion in the (W45-49) 400/800 with a Pending American Record for the Indoor 400 Meter Run.

Jill Vollweiler, (Age 46) So Cal Track Club, Purchase, NY, this is her third year running the event.

Laurie Wisotsky, (Age 44) So Cal Track Club, Largo, Florida

Cleary added, “Drake Relays Meet Director Brian Brown and Assistant Meet Director Carolyn  Hill have been fantastic to work with. They deliver a great meet for the athletes every year and have made all the Masters athletes with the Invitational program feel valued and supported.  We appreciate Brian including us in this amazing Meet.”

SOURCE: Robert Weiner Associates and USATF Masters Media Committee



Bob Lorimer Named President of Arnold Classic Productions


Bob Lorimer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 22, 2015

Robert Lorimer Named President of Classic Productions
COLUMBUS, OHIO – Robert Lorimer has been named President of Classic Productions, Inc., and will one day succeed his father, James J. Lorimer, as the CEO of the company that produces multi-sport festivals in Columbus, Ohio; Madrid, Spain; Rio de Janeiro, Brasil; Melbourne, Australia; and Johannesburg, South Africa.

Robert Lorimer has worked for Classic Productions for 20 years with a focus on overall operations, professional and amateur bodybuilding events, and the recent expansion of Arnold Sports Festival USA to the Ohio Expo Center where a variety of sports competitions were presented in 10 expo center buildings. Robert Lorimer has also spearheaded the organization’s international expansion efforts, including the creation of the Arnold Classic Europe in 2011, the Arnold Classic Brasil in 2013, the Arnold Classic Australia in 2015, and the planned debut of the Arnold Classic South Africa in 2016.

“Bob has a complete understanding of the Arnold Sports Festival business model and is uniquely positioned to lead this organization in the future,” said James J. Lorimer, who first partnered with Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger in 1976 and later founded the Arnold Classic in 1989. “Arnold and I are confident that Bob has the ability to oversee the continued growth and success of the Arnold Sports Festival for the next 20 years and beyond.”

James J. Lorimer will remain CEO of Classic Productions and continue to oversee the organization’s daily operations. Additional responsibilities will continue to be transitioned to Robert Lorimer.

The Arnold Sports Festival, held each March in Columbus, Ohio, is the largest multi-sport event in the United States. The 2015 Arnold Sports Festival featured more than 18,000 athletes from 80 nations competing in 50 sports and events over four days. Nearly 200,000 people attended.

The Arnold Sports Festival USA was founded in 1989 as a one-day bodybuilding competition at the Franklin County Veterans Memorial known as the Arnold Classic. In the 1990s, the event began inviting additional sport competitions and, in 2000, the festival expanded into the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Today, the Arnold Sports Festival includes one of the largest fitness expositions in the nation and is also one of the largest annual events in Columbus. It is the only event that completely utilizes the Greater Columbus Convention Center and the Ohio Expo Center.

For more information visit: www.arnoldsportsfestival.com.



2015 GoPro Mountain Games Info


Go Pro Mountain Games

Registration Opens for the 2015 GoPro Mountain Games
The country’s largest celebration of adventure sports, music and mountain lifestyle welcomes its 14th edition, officially kicking off summer in less than 100 days. The 2015 GoPro Mountain Games, scheduled for June 4-7 in Vail, Colo., announced today that registration is now on sale.

Professional and amateur outdoor adventure athletes (both human and canine) are invited back to the mountains and rivers of Vail by registering now at GoProMountainGames.com and selecting from nine different sports and 25 disciplines including: x-country and road cycling, freestyle, 8-Ball, sprint and extreme kayaking, raft cross, World Cup Bouldering, stand up paddle sprint and surf cross, as well as trail and road running, dog comps, the Ultimate Mountain Challenge and the ever popular mud run.

“2014 represented our largest and most successful Mountain Games yet, with record attendance during the event window, says Mike Imhof, Senior Vice President of Sales & Operations for the Vail Valley Foundation, organizers of the annual event. “We’re very pleased with the significant and continued growth of the project each year alongside our title sponsor GoPro, and come June 2015, we will be excited to share new events, partners, concerts and more.

As in past years, participants are encouraged to enter early and online to save some money and ensure receipt of the highly coveted athlete swag bag, of which there is a limited quantity awarded on a first come, first serve basis.

The 2015 GoPro Mountain Games will feature more than $110,000 in prize money and some new additions and changes, including the Mountain Mud Run which will include a Kids-only wave, acting as a qualifier for the growing Kids Adventure Games race series, mud pit and multiple obstacles. The Mountain Games will shift away from the Slopestyle competition this June and plans to add a new event to the athletic line up. More details on the Mountain Mud Run, new competition(s) and the Mountains of Music free concert lineup will be announced soon. Athlete and spectator numbers are anticipated to break 60,000 during the weekend.

The GoPro Mountain Games is one of the most family-friendly events in Colorado and nearly a quarter of the event’s 2014 attendees were families. Throughout the four-day festival, kids can try kayaking, rock climbing, rafting, stand-up paddling, yoga, slacklining and ziplining all for free, and roam Gerber Gear Town to grab all sorts of swag from more than 80 exhibitors. Attendees are also encouraged to check out free concerts in Vail Village each night, the outdoor reel film series, GoPro training sessions, contests, giveaways and more.

# # #

About the GoPro Mountain Games/Vail Valley Foundation
The GoPro Mountain Games is a project of the Vail Valley Foundation. The Vail Valley Foundation is a Colorado 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, dedicated to enriching the Vail Valley and sustaining its unique spirit through the delivery of unparalleled arts, world class athletics and inspiring education programs throughout the community. For additional information on the Vail Valley Foundation, please visit www.vvf.org.

About GoPro
GoPro makes the world’s most versatile cameras, enabling people to capture immersive and engaging footage of themselves during their favorite activities. GoPro’s HERO line of wearable and gear mountable cameras are used collectively by more consumers, professional athletes, and video production professionals than any other camera in the world. Based in San Mateo, California, GoPro’s products are available in more than 30,000 stores in over 100 countries worldwide and direct via GoPro.com.

GOPRO®, HERO®, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Woodman Labs, Inc. in the United States and other countries. All other company, product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their rightful owners.

News Release via gopromountaingames.com Photo from the 2014 GO PRO Mountain Games.



UFC Signs Multi-Year Deal with Monster Energy®


UFC® SIGNS ENERGY DRINK PARTNERSHIP WITH MONSTER ENERGY®
Las Vegas, Nev. – The UFC® today confirmed a new partnership with Monster Energy®, to be the official energy drink of the UFC. This new exclusive deal – which excludes Brazil – continues UFC’s approach of partnering with industry-leading companies that share the same values and vision to further maximize and expand branding opportunities worldwide.

“The UFC® is excited to partner with a category leader like Monster Energy and introduce them to our fans who embody the same enthusiasm and passion synonymous with their brand,” UFC Executive Vice President of Global Marketing Partnerships Michael Mossholder said. “This new multi-year deal will bring new and exciting experiential opportunities and unique in-market retail promotions.”

“We are excited to partner with the world’s leading mixed martial arts organization as the official energy drink of UFC as we expand our commitment into the MMA category,” said Sam Pontrelli, Monster Energy Senior Vice President of Marketing. “Through this partnership we will build a stronger brand position and expand our reach globally, thereby gaining exposure to a new audience while supporting the sport’s premiere athletes. We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship.”

Monster Energy will also be sponsoring select athletes including UFC women’s bantamweight champion “Rowdy” Ronda Rousey, as well as UFC® lightweight champion Anthony “Showtime” Pettis and former UFC welterweight champion and current No.1 welterweight contender Johny “Bigg Rigg” Hendricks, both of whom are competing at UFC® 185 in Dallas this coming Saturday.

Additional UFC athletes will be announced at a later date.

As part of this partnership, the Monster Energy logo has center placement on the canvas, as first witnessed at UFC® 184: Rousey vs. Zingano in Los Angeles. Monster Energy will also be promoted on various UFC® entities inside and outside the Octagon® and together with UFC they will execute distinctive retail promotions and contest opportunities such as:

• “Belt the Champ”: a promotion to give one lucky fan the opportunity to attend a title fight and step inside the Octagon to present the championship belt.
• The “Monster Experience”: an opportunity for fans to gain unparalleled access during a UFC fight week, including access to open workouts, the weigh-in, press conferences, and the chance to sit with UFC President Dana White at the live event.

For more information on UFC or current fight news, visit ufc.com. For more information on Monster Energy visit monsterenergy.com.



Bodybuilding.com Opens New Corporate Office In Portland


bodybuilding.com logoThe Internet’s Most Visited Fitness Website is Coming to Portland
BOISE, Idaho, March 2, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bodybuilding.com is thrilled to announce the opening of its new corporate office in Portland’s chic Pearl District. Founded in Boise, ID, Bodybuilding.com‘s new corporate expansion will help the growing company hire top tech talent from the renowned Silicone Forest.

New talent, locally based in the Portland office, will be working on projects designed to help and improve the experience of the 30 million unique visitors who turn to Bodybuilding.com every month. As the Internet’s top destination for health and fitness information, Bodybuilding.com provides the tools people need to achieve their health, fitness, and appearance goals, all for free.

“Building a successful business from the ground up requires revolutionary ideas,” says Bodybuilding.com founder and CEO Ryan DeLuca. “We believe in taking an aggressive approach to bring these ideas to life. Innovative thinking has fueled our ability to grow from a simple website selling creatine to a complex online resource with thousands of products, a wealth of fitness information, and a thriving online community.”

With over 9.4 million registered users, Bodybuilding.com’s fitness social media platform and workout-tracking app, BodySpace, is the largest of its kind. The new team member additions from the Silicone Forrest will be working on projects to revolutionize how people get fit. Bodybuilding.com’s mantra, “we change lives,” is more than just a saying; it’s a mission.

Of course, the proof is in the high-protein, low-fat pudding, which takes form from the thousands of amazing transformations fueled by Bodybuilding.com’s comprehensive weight loss and muscle building plans. Check out some of these incredible stories in the Motivation section of the website.

In 2014 alone, BodySpace members tracked 6 million workouts, hoisted 94 billion pounds, and performed over 700 thousand hours of cardio, resulting in a total weight loss over 2 million pounds.

About Bodybuilding.com
Based in Boise, Idaho, Bodybuilding.com is the world’s largest online sports nutrition store. The site carries more than 13,500 health and fitness supplements and accessories, shipping to customers in more than 155 countries. Bodybuilding.com helps more than 29 million people every month achieve their health, fitness and appearance goals by offering over 35,000 pages of FREE information, including more than 25,000 articles and 10,000 videos, expert-designed online training programs, and new content added daily. For more information, please visit www.bodybuilding.com.



Bodybuilding.com Launches Their Own Supplement Line


True Grit Supplements
It seems there’s a new supplement line announced every month and why would 2015 be any different? It’s not. Bodybuilding.com has become the largest online retailer of nutritional supplements and has decided to venture back into the world of  supplements with their own line. About ten years  ago, Bodybuilding.com had their own supplement line called “Higher Power”. It was cheaper, dare I say “generic” alternative to other brands. It was a bit like Target with a cheaper alternative next to the big name brand of xyx product.

There newest line is taking a different approach and it appears it will will be heavily promoted on the site. The new line was the top promo in an e-newsletter and holds one of the three rotator positions on the site’s homepage. The packaging isn’t generic in its look and has a comparative feel to other brands. True GRIT’s messaging is similar despite claims of being “unlike any supplement”. Many companies claim their products are made for “true athletes” (Muscle Pharm, Gifted Nutrition and others) and backed by science (nearly every supplement at some point in their marketing).

There are five products in the initial launch with two products listed as coming soon. Available now are a pre-workout, whey protein (in 2 and 4 pounds), post-workout and a fat burner. The multi-vitamin and testosterone booster are scheduled to be released in February. Look for the True GRIT brand to shoot up to the top of the site’s Top Sellers list in no time.

NEWS RELEASE – BODYBUILDING.COM LAUNCHES TRUE GRIT
BOISE, Idaho, Jan. 27, 2015 Bodybuilding.com the Internet’s most-visited fitness site and largest online retailer of nutritional supplements, is proud to release the most science-based, research-backed, results-oriented supplement line available, True GRIT. The new line, True GRIT includes the following:

• Whey protein powders to support muscle building.
• Pre-workout powder for improved workouts.
• A test booster to support healthy testosterone levels.
• A thermogenic to help support body composition.

“Each True GRIT supplement contains premium and fully dosed ingredients, so there will never be a question of what you’re putting in your body,” stated Ryan DeLuca, founder and CEO of Bodybuilding.com. “True GRIT is backed by today’s best science and research to bring you the best products possible.”

True GRIT is unlike any supplement because it was made for the true athlete in mind. It was created from advanced supplement research, using clinical studies performed at leading universities and sports performance labs around the world. These studies revealed some of the most effective physique altering and performance-enhancing ingredients currently available. To get your first look at these scientific supplements, please click here.

About Bodybuilding.com
Based in Boise, Idaho, Bodybuilding.com is the world’s largest online sports nutrition store. The site carries more than 13,500 health and fitness supplements and accessories, shipping to customers in more than 155 countries. Bodybuilding.com helps more than 29 million people every month achieve their health, fitness and appearance goals by offering over 35,000 pages of FREE information, including more than 25,000 articles and 10,000 videos, expert-designed online training programs, and new content added daily. For more information, please visit www.bodybuilding.com.



Skullcandy Welcomes Olympic Snobowarder Silje Norendal to the Team


Silje Norendal

Skullcandy Welcomes Silje Norendal to the Team
PARK CITY, Utah, Dec. 10, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Skullcandy, Inc. (Nasdaq:SKUL) the original lifestyle and performance audio brand, is pleased to announce that Norwegian Olympic snowboarder and multiple Winter X Games gold medalist, Silje Norendal, has joined its family of elite athletes. Silje, known for her progressive style and athleticism in slopestyle, is a standout athlete and influencer in women’s action sports.

Since she jumped on her first board at the young age of four, her consistent focus and dedication to training has made her a threat to be on top of the podium at all of the major events. Silje has developed one of the smoothest styles in snowboarding and is now recognized as a standout athlete at just 21 years old. Silje harnesses serious motivation from music before competing—making her a perfect match with the brand’s best in class crew of athletes.

“It’s amazing to get to partner with a brand I love so much,” said Silje. “I’m looking forward to being part of the Skullcandy family and working on progressing, competing, and exploring the connection between my music and my riding. This is an exciting time in my career and I can’t wait to see what happens next!”

“Silje joins an amazing roster of athletes and artists who are all committed to performing at their best,” said Rob Layer, Brand and Sports Marketing Manager, Skullcandy. “She is one of the leading ladies in the snowboarding world and we are stoked to have her join the family.”

In addition to joining their roster of athletes, Silje will also be featured in the Skullcandy Women’s Collection campaign, which features three options that are specifically engineered and fine-tuned for women.

To learn more, visit www.skullcandy.com.

About Skullcandy, Inc.
Skullcandy is the original lifestyle and performance audio brand inspired by the creativity and irreverence of youth culture. Skullcandy designs, markets and distributes audio and gaming headphones and other accessory related products under the Skullcandy, Astro Gaming and 2XL brands. Skullcandy was launched in 2003 and quickly became one of the world’s most distinct audio brands by bringing unique technology, color, character and performance to an otherwise monochromatic space; helping to revolutionize the audio arena by introducing headphones, earbuds and other audio and wireless lifestyle products that possess unmistakable style and exceptional performance. The company’s products are sold and distributed through a variety of channels in the U.S. and approximately 80 countries worldwide, including the company’s website at skullcandy.com.

Photo by Isaac Hinds



Disclaimer: Reader discretion advised, please consult your physician before beginning any exercise or diet program.