words // Brandon Richard
via Press Release
New Balance has officially announced that The British Miler, a new 12-part documentary series tracking seven British Team New Balance 1500m runners on their journey to represent their country, will begin airing on Sky Sports starting April 30. The premiere 30-minute episode follows 2008 Olympic finalist, Andy Baddeley, and six of Britain’s best: Tom Lancashire, Lee Emanuel, Colin McCourt, Nick McCormick, James Brewer and Ricky Stevenson. It will air on Sky Sports 3 at 6 p.m., with the story coming to its conclusion on July 9 following the culmination of the Team GB trials.
Produced by sports filmmakers, KIMbia Athletics and narrated by former Olympian Richard Nerurkar, the program examines the personal journeys of the athletes and the effect of the physical and mental pressure on their lives and their relationships with one another.
Part of a multi-platform campaign for 2012 which captures the history and excitement of the mile event in Britain, the documentary also examines Britain’s proud history in the mile and 1500m events that dates back to the pace-setting achievements of Sir Roger Bannister in 1954.
In addition to the landmark television series, The British Miler also takes in a comprehensive on-line and social media campaign including exclusive interviews with athletes and running experts and athlete blogs at www.thebritishmiler.com.
“2012 represents a significant year for New Balance in the UK,” said Tom Carleo, general manager, running and outdoor at New Balance. “As the only athletic footwear brand to manufacture in the UK, New Balance will mark its 30th anniversary of British production in the year of the games. This program tells a new story about Britain’s love for track’s most fabled event and we believe its compelling and unique content will pique the interest of runners and non-runners alike.”
Team New Balance 1500m runner Andy Baddeley said: “I’m proud to be involved in The British Miler initiative. I believe this documentary will give viewers insights into the level of preparation and emotional investment that goes into competing at the highest level.”
To commemorate The British Miler story, New Balance is set to launch in-store marketing at select New Balance retailers, together with a limited edition The British Miler running shoe.
Get an early look at the series by checking out the trailer and photos below.
