The annual Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is finally upon us, and there’s plenty of new merchandise and memorabilia to stock up on while you’re there, including t-shirts, designer bags, Vinylmation figurines, and brand new New Balance shoes.
First up are the t-shirts, which are a yearly favorite. This year’s selection will include “I Did It” tees with a course map on the back, as well as a “Coast to Coast Challenge” variety.
Hold the phone. If you know me, you know I don’t run unless something scary is chasing me, yet this news that Disney and New Balance are teaming up for a multi-year strategic alliance today that includes exclusive Mickey & Minnie themed running shoes, running-specific initiatives, and co-branding opportunities has me considering getting off the couch for a jog. New Balance is pretty much the only shoe that fits my foot, so this is, pardon the pun, a perfect fit for me.
This exciting alliance will bring New Balance’s innovative, design-forward athletic footwear to the leading vacation destination in the world, in particular Disney’s thriving sports business. As part of the collaboration, New Balance becomes the official athletic shoe of Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. New Balance also becomes the official running shoe for runDisney race weekends and the official baseball shoe of amateur baseball events at the Sports Complex.
In addition, New Balance also becomes the title sponsor of the track & field facility at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, home of the annual Walt Disney World Cross Country Classic and Disney’s Track & Field Spring Training for high school and collegiate teams. Future initiatives include the creation of maps for the running trails at Walt Disney World Resort and fitness programs for Disney resort guests interested in pursuing healthy options.Read More »New Balance becomes official Running Shoe of Walt Disney World, RunDisney