SPEEDO in Synch Again

May 21, 2001

Speedo is the newest National Sponsor and Official Outfitter of the U.S. Synchronized Swimming National Teams under a five-year partnership announced in May by Speedo and Synchro Swimming USA.

The world's leading competitive and fitness swimwear manufacturer returns to the sport it sponsored from 1979-1992, and in the process gains sponsorship rights to its fifth major aquatic sport in the United States.

"Not only does Speedo look forward to supporting Synchro USA's efforts to grow the sport, we are excited about developing a relationship with its members," said Stu Isaac, vice president of Sales and Marketing. "In particular, we hope our association with Synchro Swimming USA will heighten awareness of our current and future Speedo product offerings."

As part of the agreement, Speedo will outfit all three U.S. National Teams, host the Speedo Synchro Swimmer of the Quarter scholarship program, and further develop merchandising and public relations efforts for the sport and its athletes.

Speedo also gains title sponsorship of the Speedo Junior Synchronized Swimming Championships through 2005.

"Speedo was one of the initial sponsors that helped develop synchronized swimming in the 1980s. We've had a long history with Speedo and we're excited to have them back in the synchro family," said Debbie Hesse, executive director for Synchro Swimming USA. "Our athletes are looking forward to the outfitting package Speedo has designed, and our organization is eager to develop this mutually beneficial relationship."

Speedo, a licensee of the U.S. Olympic Committee, is also the National Sponsor and Official Outfitter for USA Swimming, U.S. Diving, USA Waterpolo, USA Triathlon and USA Volleyball.

Speedo returns to the synchro scene after a seven-year hiatus, during which Synchro Swimming USA was sponsored by Jantzen swimwear. Speedo is a WARNACO company, symbolized by ASM on the New York Stock Exchange.

U.S. Synchronized Swimming is the National Governing Body of synchronized swimming in the United States. Based in Indianapolis, Ind., Synchro Swimming USA governs and sanctions competition for more than 200 clubs across the nation, and selects and trains three U.S. National Teams to represent the United States in international competitions.