Your opinion column (“Benefits of long-term partnership is worth going ‘all in,’” Sept. 8-14) is right to hail Nike’s, and indirectly NBCUniversal’s, long-term commitment to track and field. On the surface it would seem track is very much a secondary sport, but scratching the surface the facts are different. Running is the biggest sport by far in America across all age groups. High school track plus cross country significantly exceed football, basketball and soccer in participation. The issue of serious head and limb injuries in contact sports is of growing concern to families, while track provides a safe multifaceted opportunity for all sizes, shapes, abilities and is equally divided between the sexes.
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The challenge is elite presentation on television, which requires an artistic makeover more interesting to the average sports fan, and the need to nurture and publicize the current cast of rising young American stars, who suffer from the unfortunate reputation of their predecessors. Despite this, track and field remains the centerpiece of the Olympic Games.
Here at the Armory in New York City, New Balance already has made a significant long-term commitment several years ago and their investment and vote of confidence has brought terrific dividends for all concerned. Track and field simply needs more Nikes and New Balances to engage with the enormous untapped demographic that will only grow exponentially in the future.
Dr. Norbert Sander Jr.
New York City
Sander is president and CEO of New Balance Track & Field Center at the Armory NYC.
