USA Triathlon (USAT) is pleased to announce that Avia has joined on as a corporate partner and will be designated as the official running shoe of USAT.

"Not only did USAT select Avia as our running shoe partner because of their commitment to the sport, but we were especially impressed with the fact that its triathlon-inspired footwear collections are all approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)," said Bryan Doerer, USAT national sales manager. "Proper equipment plays a critical role in maintaining the health of our athlete members. Avia earning the seal of approval from the APMA means their footwear is designed to prevent running-related injuries and ensure successful training."

As an official partner of USAT, Avia will be the title sponsor of the USAT Collegiate National Championship in Tuscaloosa, Ala. this spring. Avia will also outfit some of the elite level triathletes on the USAT Trade Team who are training for the upcoming Olympic Trials and hoping to qualify for the Olympic Games in Beijing, China.

"Avia has a strong heritage in the triathlon and multisport community, and since the early '80s we have made a concerted effort to continually strengthen this commitment each year," said Ed Goldman, Avia's Vice President of Marketing. "In 2008, our decision to partner with USAT was predicated by this history; it was a natural fit given our long list of athlete and race sponsorships which includes the title for the Avia Wildflower race in early May."

For more information visit www.avia.com or www.usatriathlon.org.