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Why so many Olympic hopefuls are running in all-black, unbranded gear

The Unsponsored Project: Revolutionizing the World of Sports Sponsorships

In the world of track and field, athletes often wear branded apparel as a way to get sponsored by major companies. However, a new initiative by Bandit Running is challenging this traditional model and providing opportunities for unsponsored athletes to shine. The Unsponsored Project is an innovative program that gives athletes the tools they need to compete at the highest level, without the burden of sponsorship.

Athletes Embracing the Change

At the recent U.S. Track & Field Olympic Trials, 35 unsponsored athletes took to the track wearing all-black, logo-less gear. These athletes are part of the Unsponsored Project, a program designed to support and promote up-and-coming competitors. Among them is Christopher Royster, a talented track and field athlete who has been selected for the program.

A New Sponsorship Model

Bandit Running, the company behind the Unsponsored Project, is offering Olympic hopefuls the chance to compete without the restrictions of traditional sponsorship deals. The program provides athletes with all-black kits, warmups, and short-term endorsement deals, giving them the freedom to focus on their training and compete at the highest level. According to Bandit co-founder Tim West, the company is aiming to create a new sponsorship model where brands support amateur and sub-elite athletes, helping to grow the sport.

The Benefits of Unsponsored Athletes

The Unsponsored Project offers several benefits to athletes, including the chance to compete without the pressure of traditional sponsorship deals. For athletes like Courtney Okolo, who has won a gold medal in the 2016 Rio Olympics, the program provides a sense of freedom and relief. Okolo, who has been sponsored by Nike in the past, is now embracing the Unsponsored Project and enjoying the autonomy it brings.

The Struggle to Compete as an Unsponsored Athlete

Many athletes struggle to compete without sponsorship, as the costs of training and traveling to competitions can be prohibitively expensive. According to Okolo, showing up to compete can be costly, and only a few athletes in the sport have the financial means to support themselves. For athletes like Brandee Johnson, who qualified for the Olympic trials this year, the Unsponsored Project provides a lifeline.

The Importance of Support

The Unsponsored Project highlights the importance of support in sports. According to Johnson, being part of the program helps her feel more comfortable and confident in her abilities. The project also provides a platform for athletes to showcase their skills and attract potential sponsors.

FAQs

Q: What is the Unsponsored Project?
A: The Unsponsored Project is a program designed by Bandit Running to support and promote up-and-coming track and field athletes.

Q: How does the program work?
A: The program provides unsponsored athletes with all-black kits, warmups, and short-term endorsement deals.

Q: Why is the program needed?
A: The program addresses the challenges faced by unsponsored athletes, who often struggle to compete without the financial support of traditional sponsorship deals.

Q: What are the benefits of being part of the Unsponsored Project?
A: The program provides athletes with the chance to compete without the pressure of traditional sponsorship deals, as well as access to all-black kits and warmups, and short-term endorsement deals.

Q: How can athletes join the Unsponsored Project?
A: Athletes can join the program by applying through Bandit Running’s website.

Conclusion

The Unsponsored Project is a game-changing initiative in the world of sports sponsorships. By providing unsponsored athletes with the tools they need to compete, the program is helping to grow the sport and promote up-and-coming competitors. As the program continues to evolve, it is likely to have a profound impact on the world of track and field and beyond.

Author: www.cnbc.com

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