November 17, 2010 − Bluewave Energy is pleased to announce the signing of a four-year sponsorship agreement with Canadian Olympic hopeful and National Skeleton athlete, Eric Neilson.
The 29-year-old Kelowna, BC native has been an active participant in sports his entire life. After being challenged by a friend to try out for the Skeleton team, Eric was instantly hooked on the rush of taking the sled down the track on ice.
Skeleton is the fast winter sliding sport of riding a small fiberglass body sled, bolted to two steel runners, through twisting, high speed turns and straight-aways while reaching speeds of up to 135 km/h (80 miles/h).
Eric’s explosive power, speed and passion for the sport won him a place on the National Skeleton Team and he placed 4th overall on last year’s Europa Cup Tour. He has recently taken time off from his job as a youth programmer with the City of Calgary to train and prepare for the grueling winter racing season.
Bluewave’s support will help Eric train and compete more often at a higher level. The total cost of an average Skeleton season can be a considerable amount, which is largely the athlete’s responsibility. Eric says his partnership with Bluewave has relieved some of the stress and constant cost demands that amateur athletes face.
“Bluewave Energy’s sponsorship has helped to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with being an amateur athlete and has allowed me to concentrate on increasing my performance levels,” he said. “Everyday that I go to the track, I’m so happy that I get to dawn the maple leaf and make myself a better athlete. Bluewave’s support is directly helping me to achieving my ultimate goal, and dream, of representing Canada and going for the gold at the Winter Olympics.”
Bluewave is equally as excited about the partnership, citing its unwavering support for amateur athletes in Canada as the driving force behind this impressive financial commitment.
“We are proud to be able to support an incredible Canadian athlete like Eric,” said Bill Sanford, President of Bluewave Energy.
“Eric is a great brand ambassador and role model for young athletes everywhere, exemplifying incredible determination and passion. We wish him the best of luck in going for the gold at the 2014 Olympics in Sochi, Russia.”