RUDY PROJECT NAMED OFFICIAL EYEWEAR &
HELMET SPONSOR OF XTERRA
3-Year Agreement Signed Between Rudy Project and XTERRA

DENVER, CO – XTERRA, the premier off-road triathlon and trail run series, has selected Rudy Project as its official and exclusive eyewear and helmet sponsor in the U.S.  Rudy Project, an endurance sports leader in sunglass, prescription eyewear, and helmet manufacturing, will continue this partnership through 2014.

Last month, Rudy Project North America announced that it is now doing business under the name Running and Cycling Enterprises (“RACE”).  In addition to Rudy Project branded products, RACE will also distribute XX2i Optics (“XX2i”), “Affordable Eyewear For Our Times.”  RPNA and XX2i will still conduct business under their respective names, operating under RACE.  With the XTERRA partnership, XX2i will operate as the official “affordable” eyewear for XTERRA.

“Over the years, we’ve had a solid working relationship with the folks and athletes at XTERRA, so it only made sense to partner with them officially, given their influential, positive role in the endurance world,” said Paul Craig, President and Co-Founder of Rudy Project North America.  “By partnering with XTERRA, Rudy Project and XX2i hope to grow within the sport of triathlon, cycling, and running,” he added.

As a participating sponsor, Rudy Project will connect with XTERRA’s active, national audience of adventure seekers, weekend warriors and competitors via the XTERRA America Tour of more than 100 off-road triathlons and trail runs held across the U.S. annually.

“Rudy Project has a history of making great products, evident in the number of athletes seen wearing their sunglasses and helmets at our races,” said Tom Kiely, the CEO of TEAM Unlimited/XTERRA. “They have also been great supporters of the sport of triathlon, and we’re excited to have them on our team,” he added.

The partnership is great news for XTERRA athletes, as Rudy Project sunglasses, helmets, and performance bags will be awarded at events nationwide.  XTERRA endurance athletes, their families, and friends can also benefit via exclusive XTERRA special offers.

Rudy Project sponsors thousands of renowned organizations, athletes, and teams, including USA Triathlon, US Rowing, XTERRA, Pro Cycling Team Liquigas Cannondale, Triathlon Club of San Diego, professional triathletes Melanie McQuaid, Michellie Jones, Matt Reed, Sarah Haskins, Andy Potts, to name a few.

About RACE
Running and Cycling Enterprises (“RACE”) is a distributor of award-winning, high quality products for triathletes, cyclists, runners and other athletes who demand functional products that allow them to compete and train more effectively.  Currently, RACE distributes Rudy Project products and XX2i Optics, and is seeking other high-quality products that meet RACE’s criteria for distribution.  Interested parties should contact RACE at info@gorace.pro or call (888) 860-7597.  Learn more about RACE at www.runningandcyclingenterprises.com.

About Rudy Project
Rudy Project designs and manufactures hi-tech sunglasses, Rxes, goggles and helmets by applying the most advanced science and technology. Designed and made in Italy since 1985, Rudy Project has grown quickly as a premier brand throughout North America.  Rudy Project has won Outside Magazine’s prestigious “Gear of the Year” Award twice for its cutting edge frame and lens technologies. Rudy helmets were recognized as the #1, most worn TT brand at the 2011 World Championship in Kona, HI.  Of late, Rudy Project has prided itself for providing the absolute best prescription eyewear for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts around the world.  What sets Rudy Project apart is unparalleled customer service standards, cutting edge products and technological innovations, and proprietary, award winning lens technologies including ImpactX™, Polar3FX™ and RPOptics™.  Rudy Project offers a Lifetime Replacement Lens Guarantee and 3 year frame warranty.  Learn more about Rudy Project at www.e-rudy.com.

About XX2i
XX2i Optics designs and manufacturers affordable eyewear for our times, supporting people who make a difference every day, people who are committed to a healthy, athletic lifestyle and being good citizens – people who appreciate quality, innovation and no BS marketing.  XX2i is committed to producing the best possible eyewear for outdoor enthusiasts and stands behind each product it produces with integrity and pride to insure you’re completely satisfied, no matter what.  XX2i offers 365 days for returns and exchanges, lifetime bumper-to-bumper warranty on all products, adjustable nose pads & temple tips, a custom fit for every face, every time, and they are athlete tested, by some of the world’s top athletes.  Learn more about XX2i at www.xx2i.com.

About TEAM Unlimited/XTERRA
TEAM Unlimited is a Hawaii-based television events and marketing company, founded in 1988.  It owns and produces XTERRA and in 2011 produced more than 100 XTERRA off-road triathlon and trail running races in 15 countries worldwide.  In the U.S. alone nearly 200,000 participants took part in the XTERRA lifestyle last year while XTERRA’s TV, publicity, advertising, online, and grassroots marketing efforts generated more than 400 million impressions.  In addition, TEAM TV has produced more than 300 adventure television shows resulting in three Emmy’s and 42 Telly Awards for production excellence since 1990.  View samples at www.xterra.tv, and learn more at xterraplanet.com and xterratrailrun.com.

RUDY PROJECT SIGNS PRO TRIATHLETE MELANIE MCQUAID FOR EYEWEAR & HELMETS
3X XTERRA World Champion McQuaid Joins the Rudy Project Family

DENVER, CO – She was the first person to claim three XTERRA Triathlon World Championship titles, she was the winner of the inaugural ITU Cross Triathlon World Championship in Spain last April, she won this past weekend’s Ironman 70.3 California, and hailing from Canada, she is determined to tack on another victory title at this year’s XTERRA Worlds.  Rudy Project is pleased to announce that it has signed Melanie McQuaid as her official helmet and sunglass sponsor through 2014.

Melanie McQuaid - Photo Credit: Paul Cabigao

McQuaid isn’t your run of the mill triathlete – she doesn’t stick to just one type of triathlon, rather, to balance her schedule and improve her training and race performance, she competes in both off-road races and half Ironman events. In fact, her two favorite races are Ironman 70.3 Vineman and XTERRA Italy, Sardinia.  When asked why she likes Vineman, she responded, “I love wine and what’s better than a triathlon in wine country?” McQuaid knows what it means to have fun and a quick glance at her website is a sure sign – her video blogs are hilarious, to say the least, especially her triathlete spoofs and cooking videos.

“We love Melanie not just because she’s an incredible athlete, but because she is spunky and cool,” remarked Paul Craig, President and Co-Founder of Rudy Project North America.  “How many triathletes can say they’ve dominated both off-road and half Ironman triathlons?  Not many.  We look forward to supporting her efforts to become one of the world’s most esteemed triathletes,” he added.

From performance eyewear to helmets to racing apparel, Rudy Project designs and manufacturers many exceptional products made specifically for triathletes like McQuaid.  She chose Rudy Project because she “really loves Rudy’s super funky, Italian flare.”  She considers the Rudy Project performance glasses to be “especially functional, stylish, and versatile – there is a sunglass and lens for everyone.”

McQuaid will be sporting Rudy Project’s Sterling helmet for training and off-road races, the Wingspan for her 70.3s, and the Genetyk sunglasses this season as she accomplishes, what she calls, “some unfinished business at XTERRA Worlds.”  She plans to take the season one race at a time, and of course, race her fastest.

Rudy Project sponsors thousands of other renowned athletes, organizations and teams, including USA Triathlon, US Rowing, XTERRA, Pro Cycling Team Liquigas Cannondale, Triathlon Club of San Diego, professional triathletes Michellie Jones, Matt Reed, Sarah Haskins, Andy Potts, to name a few.

About Rudy Project
Rudy Project designs and manufactures hi-tech sunglasses, Rxes, goggles and helmets by applying the most advanced science and technology. Designed and made in Italy since 1985, Rudy Project has grown quickly as a premier brand throughout North America. Rudy Project has won Outside Magazine’s prestigious “Gear of the Year” Award twice for its cutting edge frame and lens technologies. Rudy helmets were recognized as the #1, most worn TT brand at the 2011 World Championship in Kona, HI. Of late, Rudy Project has prided itself for providing the absolute best prescription eyewear for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts around the world. What sets Rudy Project apart is unparalleled customer service standards, cutting edge products and technological innovations, and proprietary, award winning lens technologies including ImpactX™, Polar3FX™ and RPOptics™. Rudy Project offers a Lifetime Replacement Lens Guarantee and 3 year frame warranty. Learn more about Rudy Project at  www.e-rudy.com.

IRONMAN 70.3 CALIFORNIA
Oceanside, CA
March 31, 2012

Men
1. Andy Potts (USA) 3:54:03

Andy Potts - Photo Credit: Paul Cabigao

2. Richie Cunningham (AUS) 3:55:11

Richie Cunningham - Photo Credit: Paul Cabigao

4. Leon Griffin (AUS) 3:57:03

Leon Griffin

6. Matt Reed (USA) 4:00:38

Matt Reed - Photo Credit: Eric Wynn

Women
1. Melanie McQuaid (CAN) 4:19:13

Melanie McQuaid - Photo Credit: Paul Cabigao

3. Meredith Kessler (USA) 4:23:40

Meredith Kessler - Photo Credit: Paul Cabigao

MEMORIAL HERMANN IRONMAN 70.3 TEXAS
Galveston, TX
April 1, 2011

Men
1. Timothy O’Donnell (USA) 3:47:40

Timothy O'Donnell - Photo Credit: Tim Carlson/Slowtwitch.com

Women
2. Yvonne Van Vlerken (NED) 4:18:47

Yvonne van Vlerken - Photo Credit: Christopher Whelchel

3. Amy Marsh (USA) 4:20:16

Amy Marsh

4. Caitlin Snow (USA) 4:22:03

Caitlin Snow - Photo Credit: Jay Prasuhn/Lava

5. Margaret Shapiro (USA) 4:25:27

Margaret Shapiro - Photo Credit: Nigel Farrow

LEADMANTRI EPIC 125
Las Vegas, NV
March 31, 2012

Men
2nd $3,500 – Matthew Russell
5th $1,000 – Doug Maclean
Women
1st $6,800 – Angela Naeth
2nd $3,500 – Jackie Arendt
4th $1,500 – Charisa Wernick
5th $1,000 – Uli Bromme
_______________________________

NAUTICA SOUTH BEACH TRIATHLON
Miami, FL
April 1, 2012

Men
2. Ben Collins (USA) 1:48:40

Ben Collins - Photo Credit: Brightroom Photography

4. Cameron Dye (USA) 1:50:48

Cameron Dye - Photo Credit: Eric Wynn

Women
1. Sarah Haskins (USA) 2:00:13

Sarah Haskins - Photo Credit: Eric Wynn

INTRODUCING RUNNING AND CYCLING ENTERPRISES (“RACE”)
Rudy Project North America and XX2i Optics are Doing Business Under Running and Cycling Enterprises

Rudy Project Rydon Sunglasses Black Gloss w/ Impactx Lenses

DENVER, CO – Rudy Project North America, LP (“RPNA”) is proud to announce that it is now doing business under the name, Running and Cycling Enterprises (“RACE”). In addition to Rudy Project branded products, RACE will also distribute XX2i Optics (“XX2i”), affordable eyewear for our times. RPNA and XX2i will still conduct business under their respective names, operating under RACE.

The RACE name is more descriptive of RPNA’s plans to expand its business beyond Rudy Project eyewear, helmets, clothing and accessories and XX2i eyewear. “In the near future, RPNA will be expanding its offerings, and in order to not create confusion with Rudy Project Italy, RPNA is changing its holding name to RACE,” remarked Brad Shapiro, Principal and Co-Founder of RPNA. “RACE will initially distribute Rudy Project products & XX2i Optics,” he added.

Rudy Project Wingspan Helmet #1 Aero Helmet 2011 World Championships

RPNA’s business is not affected by this name change. RPNA eyewear, helmets, clothing and accessories will simply be distributed under the RACE name, and still branded under the Rudy Project name. The same case goes for XX2i. “Inspired by the desire to continuously create award-winning, high quality products that meet athletes’ needs, we created RACE,” said Paul Craig, President and Co-Founder of RPNA. “RACE provides a lot of flexibility to expand our product line in the future,” added Craig.

Some minor administrative changes that will be affected are the following: invoices and statements will now reflect the RACE name instead of RPNA or XX2i, when calling RPNA or XX2i, the recorded announcement will state that you have reached Running and Cycling Enterprises, email addresses will have the same names but they will now read @gorace.pro. For those of you who have taken advantage of RPNA’s online services, MyRUDY will soon become MyRACE.

Rudy Project, distributed by RACE, offers unparalleled Italian designs, cutting edge products and technological innovations, unmatched customer service, and proprietary, award winning lens and Rx technologies. RPNA offers a Lifetime Replacement Lens Guarantee and 3 year frame warranty.

XX2i France1 Dual Pro Sunglass Kit

XX2i Optics, also distributed by RACE, offers affordable eyewear for our times, 365 days for returns and exchanges, lifetime bumper-to-bumper warranty on all products, adjustable features on all eyewear, including nose pads & temple tips, and athlete-tested products, by some of the world’s top athletes.

About RACE
Running and Cycling Enterprises (“RACE”) is a distributor of award-winning, high quality products for triathletes, cyclists, runners and other athletes who demand functional products that allow them to compete and train more effectively. Currently, RACE distributes Rudy Project products and XX2i Optics, and is seeking other high-quality products that meet RACE’s criteria for distribution. Interested parties should contact RACE at info@gorace.pro or call (888) 860-7597.

About Rudy Project
Rudy Project designs and manufactures hi-tech sunglasses, Rxes, goggles and helmets by applying the most advanced science and technology. Designed and made in Italy since 1985, Rudy Project has grown quickly as a premier brand throughout North America. Rudy Project has won Outside Magazine’s prestigious “Gear of the Year” Award twice for its cutting edge frame and lens technologies. Rudy helmets were recognized as the #1, most worn TT brand at the 2011 World Championship in Kona, HI. Of late, Rudy Project has prided itself for providing the absolute best prescription eyewear for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts around the world. What sets Rudy Project apart is unparalleled customer service standards, cutting edge products and technological innovations, and proprietary, award winning lens technologies including ImpactX™, Polar3FX™ and RPOptics™. Rudy Project offers a Lifetime Replacement Lens Guarantee and 3 year frame warranty. Learn more about Rudy Project at www.rudyprojectusa.com.

About XX2i
XX2i Optics designs and manufacturers affordable eyewear for our times, supporting people who make a difference every day, people who are committed to a healthy, athletic lifestyle and being good citizens – people who appreciate quality, innovation and no BS marketing. XX2i is committed to producing the best possible eyewear for outdoor enthusiasts and stands behind each product it produces with integrity and pride to insure you’re completely satisfied, no matter what. XX2i offers 365 days for returns and exchanges, lifetime bumper-to-bumper warranty on all products, adjustable nose pads & temple tips, a custom fit for every face, every time, and they are athlete tested, by some of the world’s top athletes. Learn more about XX2i at www.xx2i.com.

RUDY PROJECT SIGNS PRO TRIATHLETES HILLARY BISCAY & MEREDITH KESSLER
Ironman Champions Biscay and Kessler Join the Rudy Project Family

DENVER, CO – They’ve completed almost 100 Ironmans combined, they were both college athletes, they are best friends who can finish each other’s sentences, and now they’re both Rudy Project sponsored athletes. Rudy Project is proud to announce that it has signed Ironman Champions Hillary Biscay and Meredith Kessler as their official helmet and sunglass sponsor.

Hillary & Meredith

After competing in the 2000 US Olympic Swimming Trials (200-meter breaststroke), Biscay quickly turned to triathlon, spending her first 4 years in the sport competing as an amateur. During the past 11 years, she’s raked in 52 Ironman finishes, including a win at Ironman Wisconsin in 2008. Having her sights on another Ironman win for 2012, she’s a force to be reckoned within the sport of triathlon.

When asked how triathlon has impacted her relationship with Kessler, Biscay responded, “I remember racing Ironman Louisville in 2010 – it was a horrible race for me – and with an IV hooked up to my arm, feeling completely drained, I kept asking for updates on Meredith as she was winning Ironman Canada. Her win turned my bad day into a great day!”

Kessler didn’t start her journey as a professional triathlete, rather, she spent almost a decade racing as an amateur, eventually knocking off more than 2 hours off of her debut Ironman time. Like her best friend, Kessler too hopes to rack up another Ironman victory this year and is excited to be a part of the Rudy Project team. “The quality of Rudy Project is unmatched. This is the first sunglass I’ve worn that I don’t have to switch between the bike and the run,” proclaimed Kessler. “And the helmets are much lighter than I’m used to wearing – I barely feel like it’s on!” she added.

Meredith & Hillary training at the pool

“We are honored to have such a dynamic duo in the world of triathlon, wearing Rudy Project’s award winning sunglasses and helmets,” said Paul Craig, President and Co-Founder of Rudy Project North America. “Hillary and Meredith bring integrity, grit, fun and class to our sponsorship program and the sport we love so dearly,” he added.

Rudy Project sponsors thousands of other renowned athletes, organizations and teams, including USA Triathlon, US Rowing, Pro Cycling Team Liquigas Cannondale, Triathlon Club of San Diego, professional triathletes Michellie Jones, Matt Reed, Sarah Haskins, Andy Potts, to name a few.

About Rudy Project
Rudy Project designs and manufactures hi-tech sunglasses, Rxes, goggles and helmets by applying the most advanced science and technology. Designed and made in Italy since 1985, Rudy Project has grown quickly as a premier brand throughout North America. Rudy Project has won Outside Magazine’s prestigious “Gear of the Year” Award twice for its cutting edge frame and lens technologies. Rudy helmets were recognized as the #1, most worn TT brand at the 2011 World Championship in Kona, HI. Of late, Rudy Project has prided itself for providing the absolute best prescription eyewear for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts around the world. What sets Rudy Project apart is unparalleled customer service standards, cutting edge products and technological innovations, and proprietary, award winning lens technologies including ImpactX™, Polar3FX™ and RPOptics™. Rudy Project offers a Lifetime Replacement Lens Guarantee and 3 year frame warranty. Learn more about Rudy Project at www.e-rudy.com.

RUDY PROJECT REVAMPS RX PROGRAM FOR 2012
Focus is on Making Rx Sports Easy

DENVER, CO – Rudy Project North America, the undisputed leader in prescription sports eyewear, has announced a complete overhaul of its Authentic Sun Rx program for 2012. The new program dubbed, “Making Rx Sports Easy” features Rudy Project’s first ever product catalog for eye care professionals, dedicated solely to prescription sports eyewear, as well as a consumer Rx catalog that explains the features and benefits of Rudy Project’s Rx sports line.

Rudy Project Rx Catalog

“We are a consumer focused company and our customers requested that we simplify our program,” remarked Brad Shapiro, Co-Founder and Principal of Rudy Project North America. The Rx Catalog covers everything from A to Z with regard to the Rudy Rx program, including details on how to select the right lens for your patients, special considerations for dispensing 8 base interchangeable Rx lenses, prescription compensation, how to file a VSP claim for Rudy prescription eyewear, a new simplified and condensed price list, and much more.

Rudy Project Rx Lenses

According to Shapiro, “a unique aspect of Rudy Project’s Rx program is that it offers a sport Rx option for every patient, regardless of budget – from two free-form lens designs to Rx clips and Rudy Readers™.” Rudy Project also announced a number of other key changes to the program, including a full, one-year scratch warranty, a 7-day turnaround guarantee, the availability of online ordering, and new online training videos.

To receive a copy of the 2012 Rudy Rx catalog, learn more about the Rudy Project Authentic Sun Rx program or to find out more about how Rudy Project can assist you in creating an incremental revenue stream through the sale of sports eyewear in your practice, please call 888.860.7597 or visit www.rudyprojectusa.com.

About Rudy Project
Rudy Project designs and manufactures hi-tech sunglasses, goggles and helmets by applying the most advanced science and technology. Designed and made in Italy, Rudy Project has been distributed throughout North America since 1998. Rudy Project is known for providing the absolute best prescription eyewear for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts around the world. In addition to Rudy Project’s unparalleled customer service standards, its products are always on the cutting edge of technological innovations, including its superior lens technologies – FreeForm TEK™, New FreeForm Sport™, ImpactRx™, Polar 3FX™ and RP Optics™. Rudy Project offers a one-year guarantee on Rx lenses, a Lifetime Replacement Lens Guarantee for plano lenses, and a 3-year frame warranty. Learn more about Rudy Project at www.rudyprojectusa.com.

RUDY PROJECT RENEWS GOLD LEVEL PARTNERSHIP WITH USA TRIATHLON AS OFFICIAL EYEWEAR & HELMET
Sponsorships Also Renew with USA Ultimate, US Rowing, Bicycle Racing Association of Colorado (formerly “ACA”), and Others

DENVER, CO – Rudy Project is proud to announce that for the 12th consecutive year, the sunglass, prescription eyewear, and helmet manufacturer has signed on as the official eyewear and helmet sponsor of USA Triathlon (“USAT”), the National Governing Body of the sport of triathlon in its quest to bring home the Gold! This ongoing partnership with USAT allows Rudy Project to reach a significant and influential sector of the triathlon industry.

Sarah Haskins - Photo: Eric Wynn

USAT boasts an annual membership of more than 150,000; through this membership, Rudy Project spreads the word of safety, quality, and style with its high-quality eyewear, prescription eyewear, and helmets.

“Partnering with USAT has been one of the best decisions Rudy Project has ever made,” proclaimed Paul Craig, President and Co-Founder of Rudy Project North America.  “It’s been an honor working with the leader in the sport of triathlon in the United States, and we’re thrilled to continue working with such a reputable organization,” added Craig.

US Rowing - Photo: Paul Cabigao

Rudy Project also currently sponsors USA Ultimate, US Rowing, Bicycle Racing Association of Colorado (formerly “ACA”), USA Field Hockey, and is an official supplier of the National Ski Patrol and US Cross Country Ski Team. 

About Rudy Project
Rudy Project designs and manufactures hi-tech sunglasses, goggles and helmets by applying the most advanced science and technology. Designed and made in Italy, Rudy Project has been distributed throughout North America since 1998.  Rudy Project is known for providing the absolute best prescription eyewear for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts around the world.  In addition to Rudy Project’s unparalleled customer service standards, its products are always on the cutting edge of technological innovations, using its superior lens technologies – ImpactX™, Polar 3FX™ and RP Optics™.  Rudy Project offers a Lifetime Replacement Lens Guarantee and 3 year frame warranty.  Learn more about Rudy Project at www.e-rudy.com.

About USA Triathlon
Founded in 1982, USA Triathlon is proud to serve as the National Governing Body for triathlon – one of the fastest growing sports in the world – as well as duathlon, aquathlon, aquabike, winter triathlon and paratriathlon in the United States. USA Triathlon sanctions 3,500 races and connects with more than 150,000 members each year, making it the largest multisport organization in the world. In addition to its work with athletes, coaches, and race directors on the grassroots level, USA Triathlon provides leadership and support to elite athletes competing at international events, including ITU World Championships, Pan American Games and the Summer Olympic Games. USA Triathlon is a proud member of the International Triathlon Union and the United States Olympic Committee.

RUDY PROJECT SKIERS FINISH #1 AT NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Cross Country Skiers Koos and Diggins Place 1st at 2012 USSA Cross Country Skiing Championships

DENVER, CO – This year’s snowless winter isn’t getting the best of the cross-country ski season – it’s in full force and Rudy Project athletes continue finishing ahead of the competition.  At the 2012 USSA Cross Country Skiing Championships this past Tuesday in Rumford, Maine, U.S. Olympic skier and Rudy Project sponsored athlete, Torin Koos, found himself at the top of the podium, winning the men’s freestyle 1.6km sprint. Winning the women’s 1.4km sprint was another Rudy Project athlete, Jessie Diggins.

Rudy Project Genetyk Olympic Fluo

The event at Black Mountain, originally scheduled for last Monday, was cancelled early that morning as a result of temperatures being too warm for snow making on the barren course.  However, as Mother Nature often does, within 24 hours, she chilled the 40-degree temperature to a frigid 15 degrees, cold enough to make snow for Tuesday’s competition.

In the men’s 1.6km sprint, Torin Koos was victorious, ahead of Blackhorse-von Jess in second, and Tyler Kornfield of the University of Alaska in third.  Koos crossed the finish line wearing his Rudy Project Ekynox SGV Mask, an older model that Koos has been swearing by for years.  “Most days, I’m usually rocking the Rudy Project Prestige Sunglasses. But on race days, I pull out the old school Ekynok SGV Mask with the double-layered racing red lens,” said Koos. “They are kind of like my lucky charm on race day,” he added.

Torin Koos. Photo Credit: Ian Harvey

While crossing the finish line in her Rudy Project pink fluo Noyz sunglasses, Jessie Diggins took the gold in the women’s 1.4km sprint.  Finishing second was Caitlin Gregg and Jennie Bender in third, all sporting their Rudy Project shades. “As an official supplier for USSA, Rudy Project is honored to see so many Rudys out there on the championship course,” remarked Paul Craig, President and Co-Founder of Rudy Project North America.  “We are especially thrilled to see so many top athletes crossing the finish line in Rudy’s fluo colors,” added Craig.

About Rudy Project
Rudy Project designs and manufactures hi-tech sunglasses, goggles and helmets by applying the most advanced science and technology. Designed and made in Italy, Rudy Project has been distributed throughout North America since 1998.  Rudy Project is known for providing the absolute best RX solutions for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts around the world.  In addition to Rudy Project’s unparalleled customer service standards, its products are always on the cutting edge of technological innovations, using two superior lens technologies: RP Optics™ and ImpactX™.  Rudy Project offers a Lifetime Replacement Lens Guarantee and 3 year frame warranty.  Learn more about Rudy Project at www.e-rudy.com.

RUDY #1 AT 2011 IRONMAN WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Lava Magazine’s Product Count Reveals Rudy Project As Most Worn Aero Helmet in Kona

DENVER, CO – Just as triathletes Craig Alexander, Pete Jacobs, Chrissie Wellington and Mirinda Carfrae grace the Kona 2011 leader board, Rudy Project takes the #1 spot in Lava Magazine’s 2011 Kona aero helmet count.  The Ironman World Championship reveals the #1 selected products from the world’s best endurance athletes.

Rudy Project's Fluo Green Wingspan Aero Helmet

“Ironman athletes are known for discovering and choosing the best products,” remarked Paul Craig, President and Co-Founder of Rudy Project North America.  “We are thrilled that these athletes chose Rudy Project to accompany them on their epic journey across the lava fields of Hawaii.  It is no surprise given that Rudy Project’s Wingspan Time Trial helmet is extremely lightweight, well ventilated, perfectly aerodynamic and, above all, pure eye candy,” added Craig.

Of the aero helmets worn at this year’s race, Rudy Project dominated the field with nearly a third of the competitors choosing Rudy Time Trial helmets. In raw numbers, Rudy was worn by 211 competitors, surpassing Louis Garneau (191), market leader Giro (160), and Lazer (70).  In fact, Rudy Project’s helmet usage by TT wearing competitors increased by 85% over 2010 while most every competitor saw a decrease from the prior year.

Rudy Project's Black Wingspan Aero Helmet

Rudy Project’s Wingspan aero helmet offered competitors a clear advantage with unparalleled aerodynamics and weighing in at just 349g.  In addition, the Wingspan exceeds CPSC requirements and includes Rudy Project’s R.S.R. 7 disc retention system for single-handed on-the-fly adjustments.  It also has ear covers incorporated into the helmet’s shell for maximum aerodynamics, yet still allows the rider to hear road noises to avoid traffic hazards and ride alertly.  Finally, with front and back vent cover options, the Wingspan allows riders to choose up to 15 different configurations to customize air flow vs. aerodynamics.  The Wingspan truly debunked the myth that Time Trial helmets are too hot in Kona.

“I’ve tried many different aero helmets and when you’re riding in 100 °F heat for 112 miles, it’s imperative to have the fastest helmet with the most ventilation,” said Matt Reed, Professional Triathlete. “Rudy Project’s Wingspan helmet is the best aero helmet I’ve worn and I’m proud to have worn it this year in Kona,” he added.

Designed and engineered with the aid of legendary aerodynamics guru John Cobb, the Wingspan has undergone extensive wind tunnel testing to become the best TT helmet on the market.  Through this testing, Rudy Project and Cobb developed the Wingspan’s unique tail design that works best for all TT positions and back profiles, specifically the “flat” and “U” shapes most people display.  The TT comes in 6 color waves including Rudy’s safety minded and trendy fluorescent green, yellow and pink.

About Rudy Project
Rudy Project designs and manufactures hi-tech sunglasses, goggles and helmets by applying the most advanced science and technology. Designed and made in Italy, Rudy Project has been distributed throughout North America since 1998.  Rudy Project is known for providing the absolute best RX solutions for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts around the world.  In addition to Rudy Project’s unparalleled customer service standards, its products are always on the cutting edge of technological innovations, using two superior lens technologies: RP Optics™ and ImpactX™.  Rudy Project offers a Lifetime Replacement Lens Guarantee and 3 year frame warranty.  Learn more about Rudy Project at www.e-rudy.com.