With 2020 being the harbinger of antisocial activities and social distancing pushing our society apart, we were more than thrilled to be part of an event that gets participants and fans together where we belong. After months of planning, we unleashed our first Ironman sponsorship with the Select Blinds Ironman 70.3 Arizona on October 18 here in our hometown of Tempe! An official Half Ironman event (the “70.3” refers to the total distance in miles covered in the race, consisting of a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile run), it was such an exhilarating experience to see our brand all along the course, from fences to overpasses and, of course, on the finisher medals!
‘A Return to Racing’ indeed, this massive jaunt was Ironman’s first public event of 2020 and their team made sure laws and guidelines were followed so triathletes can get back to what they love!
We used the slogan “Exercise More Sleep” for this sponsorship because, as a window treatment company, we know the importance that sleep plays in having a somewhat normal life. In particular, it’s a vitally important part of any athlete’s training regime. If triathletes don’t have rest, they lack the energy they need to succeed! So we hope that message got across. Even if you’re not an Ironman, consider upgrading your regular window shades to blackout blinds to help you get your recommended 8 hours!
The race was a real family affair for Select Blinds. Our very own 13X-Ironman, company founder and CMO Rick Steele, rounded the lake, buildings and streets of Tempe in an attempt to crush his goal (-5 hours) and Personal Record (4:51) here in AZ! Knowing our leader’s determination and drive, it was no surprise that he finished with a time of 4:53:19, nearly missing his PR but he still swam; biked and ran to successfully beat his goal by nearly seven minutes. But the best feeling of all was undoubtedly to be awarded a finisher medal by his son, Ethan, at the end of an action packed day!
As we dash through finish line tape for this blog post, we’d like to remind triathletes that we’ll see you again soon! Select Blinds will be the title sponsor for a full-fledged Ironman race (140.6 miles!) in Maryland next year!
