US apple specialist Rainier Fruit has announced the start of a multi-year relationship with the Boston Athletic Association as an official sponsor of the Boston Marathon.
As a result, runners and spectators will have access to fresh samples of Rainier Fruit 'Rising Star' apples at hospitality locations and throughout the marathon.
“We have been in business for 128 years, and as a leading grower of both conventional and organic apples, pears, cherries and blueberries, it makes perfect sense for us to sponsor a legacy event like the oldest, most prestigious running event in the country, The Boston Marathon,' explained Mark Zirkle, president of Rainier Fruit.
The Boston Marathon is celebrating its 120th running on Monday, 18 April. The marathon attracts 30,000 registered participants and 500,000 spectators making it one of New England’s most widely viewed sporting events.
“Athletes are always looking for the best in healthy foods to power their training. Our ‘Rising Star’ apples, in both conventional and organic options, are known for their crisp texture and exceptional flavours that keep consumers coming back,' Zirkle continued. 'These Rising Stars include our proprietary Lady Alice apple and standouts such as Honeycrisp, Jazz, and Pink Lady.
“We couldn’t be more excited about this new opportunity to introduce the exceptional quality and sweet flavour of our apples while supporting the running community. This is part of our long-term commitment to providing healthy and nutritious fruit products to people around the world.”
In the years to follow, Rainier Fruit will be working closely with regional and national retailers to leverage in-store promotions and packaging that highlights the Boston Marathon sponsorship while also introducing new tools and resources for health-conscious consumers.
