Posted: December 6, 2004

Athletics: 2004 Gold Medalist Jeremy Wariner joins adidas family

PORTLAND, Ore., Dec. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- adidas has taken another major step in reaching their mission of being the world's leading sports brand by signing 2004 Olympic Gold Medallist in the 400m, Jeremy Wariner.

Twenty-year-old Wariner clocked a personal best of 44 seconds to cinch the gold in the 400m for the United States in this year's Olympic Games in Athens, Greece, making Wariner the youngest gold medallist in the event since 19-year old Steve Lewis won in 1988. His time is the best in the event since world record holder Michael Johnson won gold in the 2000 Games. Earlier in the year Wariner ran the then fastest time in the world at the 2004 Olympic Trials in Sacramento by clocking 44.37 to earn a spot on the United States Olympic Track and Field Team. These achievements finish off a year where Wariner captured NCAA titles in both the indoor and outdoor 400m, breaking the championship record at each event.

Wariner says he is eager to partner with adidas. "Joining the adidas family is an exciting step for me. This brand can support me like no other brand can, they are behind their athletes 100% and I'm confident they are the team to help me stay on top," stated Wariner.

Along with the adidas Team, Jeremy has surrounded himself with those that are no stranger to success in the world of Track and Field. Wariner has selected Track and Field Legend Michael Johnson as his agent. Wariner will continue to be coached by Baylor University Head Coach, Clyde Hart, who is also the former coach to Johnson.

Martyn Brewer, Director of Sports Marketing for adidas America, welcomed Wariner. "Jeremy is the future of Track and Field for America. His passion and dedication to the sport are among the character traits that not only make him a world class athlete, but a valuable addition to the adidas family."

adidas is a global designer, developer and marketer of athletic footwear, apparel and accessories with the mission to be the leading sports brand in the world. adidas America is a subsidiary of adidas-Salomon AG, a corporation that also includes the sports brands Salomon, Taylor Made, Bonfire and Mavic.

SOURCE adidas
Web Site: www.adidas.com