Astral Named Exclusive PFD Sponsor of 2013 US Freestyle Kayak Team
OutdoorHub 03.25.13
Leading provider of personal floatation devices and water-specific footwear, Astral, announces their new freestyle-inspired vest, the YTV, as the official PFD of the USA Freestyle Kayak Team at the ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championships. Taking place September 2-8, 2013 on the Nantahala River in the heart of the North Carolina Smoky Mountains, the ultimate whitewater competition will host more than 300 of the top freestyle paddlers from around the world.
“We are extremely proud to support the USA team in the World Championships especially having it right in our back yard,” says Astral Brand Manager, Bryan Owen. “It’s an incredible honor to have the USA team in our gear and for the opportunity to support the organizations that do such much for the whitewater community and the sport of Freestyle Kayaking.”
Astral has also made a contribution to the USA Freestyle Kayaking organization (USAFK) that will provide sponsorship for those training to become certified judges of the fast growing sport. In addition, Astral will provide a few of the custom designed YTVs to be auctioned or raffled at events to benefit both USAFK and Team River Runner, a non-profit organization that provides active duty service members and veterans an avenue to find health and healing through kayaking and other paddling sports.
“We appreciate this partnership,” says USAFK Chair Risa Shimoda, citing a longtime relationship with Astral, “not only for the PFDs but also the donation, which goes a long way with our judge certification process.”