ASICS America Continues Relationship with Deena Kastor, American Marathon Record Holder and Bronze Medalist

IRVINE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ASICS America is pleased to announce its continued relationship with decorated long distance runner Deena Kastor, who has been with the brand since 2001. One of the greatest women’s distance runners of all time, Kastor is well-known for victory in the 2006 London Marathon where she became the fastest female marathoner ever. Kastor also won a bronze medal in the women’s marathon at the 2004 Olympics, becoming the second American in Olympic history to medal in the event.

“A Sound Mind in a Sound Body”

“ASICS has been an incredible partner for me over the course of my career, and I’m excited to continue my relationship,” Kastor commented. “I have long admired the quality of ASICS shoes and apparel, and strongly believe in the brand so it is a huge honor for me to continue to represent it. This long-lasting partnership has been very important to me - professionally and personally - over the last ten plus years, and I look forward to what lies ahead.”

On the heels of her recent return to competition with a 3^rd place finish at the USATF Cross Country Championships and a win at the Kaiser Permanente Rock ‘n’ Roll Pasadena Half Marathon, Kastor will compete in the ASICS Los Angeles Marathon next month, her second marathon since the birth of her daughter two years ago and her first time competing in the event. The marathon will also serve as Kastor’s homecoming, as she grew up in nearby Agoura Hills, Calif.

“Deena has been an incredible ambassador and role model for the ASICS brand, and truly embodies our mission to strive for continuous improvement,” says ASICS Vice President of Marketing, Erik Forsell. “Her exceptional drive and dedication to the sport is an inspiration to us all. We look forward to cheering her on at the ASICS Los Angeles Marathon and continuing with our partnership for years to come.”

Beyond her experience in marathons, Kastor is also a former world-record holder in the 5K and a two time silver medalist at the World Cross Country Championships. An eight-time NCAA All American, she holds multiple American records on the road and track. She currently lives in Mammoth, Calif. with her husband Andrew and their two-year old daughter, Piper.

About ASICS

Anima Sana In Corpore Sano, meaning “A Sound Mind in a Sound Body,” is an old Latin phrase from which ASICS is derived and the fundamental platform on which the brand still stands. The company was founded more than 60 years ago by Kihachiro Onitsuka and is now a leading designer and manufacturer of running shoes, as well as, other athletic footwear, apparel and accessories. For more information, visit www.asics.com.

The stripe design featured on the sides of ASICS^® shoes is a trademark of ASICS Corporation and is a registered trademark in most countries of the world.