Date:20/03/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/03/20/stories/2008032059922100.htm

Sport - Swimming

Speedo signs up Khade

BANGALORE: Speedo, world’s leading swimwear brand, has signed up Virdhawal Khade, as its first Indian brand ambassador.

The 16-year-old Khade is the only Indian swimmer to have qualified for the Beijing Olympic Games. The association between the swimmer and Speedo comes following his impressive performances over the last couple of years.

Khade, currently training in Australia said, “I am happy to endorse Speedo, which incidentally, is my favourite brand. Having access to its gear will give me an edge needed to win at the highest level. I will also be a part of Team Speedo and that gives me the opportunity to work with some of the finest swimmers and coaches in the world.”

Celia Muir, Worldwide Head of Sports Marketing and Sponsorship at Speedo, in a statement said “Virdhawal (Khade) has already established himself as an outstanding swimmer in India and has a long, bright future ahead of him. He will be a great ambassador for Speedo and we look forward to seeing him build on what we believe will be an impressive career in the coming years.” — Special Correspondent