PUMA has kicked off its celebrations for the World Athletics Championships, welcoming athletes and media from around the world to the official opening of the PUMA House.
Maria Valdes, Chief Product Officer at PUMA, and Erin Longin, General Manager, Run/Train, provided prep insights alongside PUMA ambassadors and track and field icons like Karsten Warholm, Marcell Jacobs, Julien Alfred, Mutaz Barshim and Pia Skrzyszowska.
“2023 is a great year for us, it’s our 75th anniversary, and we truly believe that track and field is the root of many sports,” said Valdes. “We can look back on the many memorable moments where track and field represented our brand, from Tommie Smith back in 1968 to the numerous world records of Bolt just a couple of years ago.”
Karsten Warholm shared that the secret to his confidence is training with his coach and maintaining control. Shericka Jackson admitted that she felt no pressure because she has been working hard and is in good shape, aiming to stay in her lane and focus on herself.
Rasheed Broadbell also joined Jackson in saying he feels no pressure since the attention is not so much on him. He, too, agreed to stay focused, in his lane and deliver.
“It's been fantastic to be part of the Puma family. Puma is a great brand who have paved the way for many of my idols, and it feels great. And I love the spikes as well,” commented Julien Alfred.
Guests also heard from other athletes like Broadbell, Hansle Parchment, and rising star Jaydon Hibbert.
This year, the World Athletics Championship will occur from the 19th to the 27th of August in Budapest.
