by Alfonz Juck
Josephus Lyles, photo by PhotoRun.net
Noah Lyles, photo by PhotoRun.net
BOSTON (USA): The junior sprinting talents Lyles brothers will be represented by Mark Wetmore and Global Athletics. Informs Flotrack. According to The Washington Post, the Lyles brothers have signed an eight year deal with adidas. adidas, who recently signed fellow Virginian high schooler Drew Hunter, has agreed to pay for the brothers’ education and provide a chaperone at events until they turn 21. Noah is 19, while Josephus turned 18.
Runblogrun opines: Nicely done adidas! I am fascinated with the advent of more young athletes into the professional sport of athletics. With Candice Hill, Alexa Efraimson, Mary Cain, and others, several of the brands have looked to invest in young athletes over the long term. All hope they can see the success of an Allyson Felix, who has been a pro athlete for nearly half of her life.
What I like is that most agreements cover an education, coaching and long term approach to athlete development. What needs to happen, I believe, however, is a series of races and events that allow the athletes to develop and progress. Racing against the very top athletes at a young age may not make the most sense, all season long. Athletes take time to develop.
In speaking with Drew Hunter a couple of weeks ago, I liked that Drew was taking a gap year, to look at his future and plan it out. We wish the Lyles, Josephus and Noah, great success and as always, we thank the brands for continuing to support the next Generation of our sport!
