Barilla to Sponsor U.S. Ski’s Mikaela Shiffrin

November 21, 2012

Barilla, the Italian food company, announced today that since the start of the season it has started collaborating with the U.S. Ski Team’s Mikaela Shiffrin. 

The 17-year-old, who recently secured third place at the slalom in Levi, Finland and is considered one to watch for heading into the World Cup in Aspen, Colorado on November 24, 2012 and Sochi, Russia 2014, will now take to the slopes wearing the well-known Barilla logo on her helmet.

“We are excited to be working with such an incredibly talented athlete,” said Giannella Alvarez, Barilla Americas Group President.  “Mikaela is an inspiration to all of us, and we hope our partnership will inspire others to lead healthier, more active lifestyles, whether that’s skiing down mountains or jogging around the neighborhood or eating wholesome foods.”

The partnership between Barilla and Shiffrin is based on shared values, including nutrition, quality and family.  As a popular source of complex carbohydrates and high protein foods, Barilla pasta has been a favorite among athletes for many years.  Shiffrin regularly turns to Barilla Whole Grain, PLUS and other better-for-you varieties to fulfill her evolving nutritional needs for training.  The brand is a staple in the Shiffrin household and the basis for many family meals.

“I am very excited to be working with a family-owned company like Barilla,” says Mikaela Shiffrin.  “In my opinion eating some complex carbohydrates before a workout can really enhance my muscle performance and endurance when I’m training, and give my brain the fuel it needs to keep plugging away at schoolwork.”