Media Contacts:
Miya Denison, Global PR Associate miya.denison@newbalance.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
GRAHAM BLANKS SIGNS PRO CONTRACT WITH NEW BALANCE
Boston, MA – December 6, 2024 – Graham Blanks, two-time NCAA champion, 2024 Olympian, and standout New Balance NIL athlete, has announced his transition to a professional sponsorship with New Balance. Blanks will continue his education at Harvard University while being coached by collegiate coach Alex Gibby, who has guided him throughout his career.
Blanks joins Team New Balance after a remarkable collegiate career that includes earning a silver medal in the 5000M at the 2023 NCAA Outdoor Championships. In 2024, Graham won the 2024 NCAA Division I Men's Cross Country individual title and a few weeks later achieved the World Championship qualifying standard, running the second fastest time in NCAA history in the 5000M indoors.
“I’m thrilled to take this next step with New Balance, a brand that has been a huge part of my journey and supported me on and off the track,” Blanks stated. “I’m excited to continue building this relationship as I transition to the professional level and to keep working with Coach Alex Gibby while staying connected to the Harvard community.”
Blanks made his Olympic debut with Team USA at the Paris Olympics in the 5000m, advancing to the final and securing a top ten finish, after placing fourth at the Olympic Trials.
“We’re excited to continue our partnership with Graham as he transitions to the professional ranks,” said Pete Riley, Head of Running Sports Marketing at New Balance. “Graham’s drive to excel both academically and athletically embodies the spirit of the New Balance family. We’re thrilled to support him as he grows and look forward to watching him reach new heights, both on and off the track.”
While training under Alex Gibby for New Balance, Blanks will continue his studies in economics and philosophy.
About New Balance
New Balance, headquartered in Boston, MA, has the following purpose: Independent since 1906, we empower people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. New Balance employs 9,000 associates around the globe, and in 2023 reported worldwide sales of $6.5 billion. New Balance owns five athletic footwear factories in New England and one in Flimby, U.K. New Balance MADE U.S. footwear contains a domestic value of 70% or more and makes up a limited portion of New Balance’s U.S. sales. To learn more about New Balance, please visit www.newbalance.com; for the latest press information visit http://newbalance.newsmarket.com.
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