Shorts: Speedo, StreamAMG, Ladbrokes

Loughborough University has agreed a new partnership with global swimwear brand, Speedo.

The four-year agreement sees Speedo become the official performance kit provider for the university’s elite swimming programme. As part of the deal, all Loughborough athletes will wear Speedo swim caps and suits at domestic and international competitions.

The collaboration also extends to the grassroots level, with Speedo supporting Loughborough’s Swim School programme to help nurture the next generation of swimmers.

Speedo will also play a role in the redevelopment of Loughborough’s swimming pool, contributing to the modernisation and sustainability of the facility. Once reopened, the pool will feature a dedicated Speedo retail space in the reception area.

Members of Loughborough Sport will also receive benefits, including discounts and exclusive promotions.

Rich Ellis, Deputy Director of Sport, Loughborough University, said, “This partnership with Speedo is a natural fit for Loughborough’s long-term vision for performance sport and wider participation. Speedo’s reputation for quality and innovation aligns perfectly with our pursuit of excellence both in and out of the pool. We’re thrilled to welcome them into the Loughborough sport community.”

Rob Ashcroft, Senior Vice President / Global Brand & Product Director, Speedo, added, “We are incredibly proud to announce this new partnership with Loughborough University, a global leader in sports education and home to one of Aquatics GB’s national training centres.

“Together, we will ensure athletes at every level have access to the very best innovation, support and performance swimwear to help them reach their full potential.”

Video streaming company StreamAMG has appointed Martin Bland as its new Commercial Director.

Owned by PA Media Group, StreamAMG is a sports OTT provider that delivers live and on-demand video content for organisations across sports, media and betting.

In his new role, Bland will oversee the company’s long-term commercial planning, client relations, and go-to-market strategy. He brings over 20 years of experience spanning sports data, technology, and betting.

Prior to joining StreamAMG, Bland held senior leadership roles at EPIC Global Solutions as SVP Commercial and Director of Business Development. He has also held several managerial and business development positions at Stats Perform and Prozone Sports.

Martin Bland, Commercial Director, StreamAMG, said, “I’m delighted to join StreamAMG as Commercial Director, working alongside so many brilliant colleagues to promote our services and explore new opportunities for growth. It’s an exciting time in the industry and I look forward to showcasing the scale of StreamAMG’s offering to help elevate sports, gaming and media businesses around the world.”

Paul Hunt, Managing Director, StreamAMG, said, “Martin is a passionate leader with a wealth of experience across partnerships, innovation and sustainability. He has worked with some of the biggest names in sport and betting, and his expertise will be crucial in driving forward StreamAMG’s commercial vision and supporting our forward-thinking teams.”

Jockeys have taken part in the first UK sprint race of its kind at Ayr Racecourse during the Ayr Gold Cup Festival, raising money for the Injured Jockeys Fund.

Ten riders competed in the 110-yard sprint, which was won by Jason Hart. Callum Rodriguez finished second, with Paul Mulrennan third.

The event was inspired by a similar race staged in Peru earlier this year. Ladbrokes, sponsor of the Ayr Gold Cup Festival, donated £200 to the Injured Jockeys Fund for each jockey who competed, raising a total of £2,000.

The Injured Jockeys Fund, which was established in 1964, supports riders and their families in the event of injury, illness or accidents.

Alex Apati from Ladbrokes said, “Racegoers must have thought something was seriously wrong when ten top jockeys burst out of the stalls without their horses!

“We’re chuffed so many names got involved for such a great cause, and huge congratulations to Jason Hart who walks away with the first Ladbrokes Jockey Sprint Trophy and bragging rights… for at least a year.”

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