Sports
Adidas and Rio Marathon: Innovation and Records with Rhebeka Grippa
Rhebeka Grippa, Adidas Head of Running, shares the brand's passion for running and the future of the Rio Marathon.
In this special episode of the Stemma Podcast, Rhebeka Grippa, Senior Running Manager at Adidas Brazil, shares her personal and professional journey in the world of running. She details Adidas' rise on the global stage, focusing on innovation and record-breaking achievements. The conversation also explores the significance of the brand's partnership with the Rio Marathon and the dream of transforming it into a Major.
The world of road running breathes innovation and passion, especially when Adidas is at the center of the conversation. In a special episode of the Stemma Podcast, hosts Fábio Bessa and Thiago Calamura welcomed Rhebeka Grippa, Head of Running at Adidas Brazil. With eight months at the company, but vast experience and contagious enthusiasm, Rhebeka unveiled the brand's behind-the-scenes and the anticipation for the Rio Marathon, highlighting the synergy between her personal journey as a marathon runner and her leadership in the sport.
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Journey and Passion for Running: The Perfect Match with Adidas
Rhebeka Grippa, a business administrator with a background in fashion and product marketing, always dreamed of joining Adidas. Her passion for running began in 2014, evolving from a way to overcome challenges into a fundamental pillar of her life. The connection with the brand, which she admires for its ability to transform lives through sport and lifestyle, was a path built with persistence. After a long selection process, Rhebeka took on the running role, a true "marriage" between her expertise, desires, and the company's culture. Experiences like visiting the confidential showroom in Germany on her "day minus one" at the company illustrate the intensity and fulfillment of her role.
Adidas: Global Leadership and Record-Breaking Innovation
Adidas is experiencing a moment of glory, with remarkable dominance in the global running scene. Rhebeka emphasizes the continuous work of innovation and technology behind the Adizero family, which includes the acclaimed Adios Pro and the versatile EVRSL. In Major Marathons, Adidas has claimed 64% of the podiums, an impressive feat. The London Marathon became historic, with three records broken in a single race, including the mythical two-hour barrier by two athletes and a women's world record. For Rhebeka, experiencing these moments, even from a distance, as a runner and part of Adidas, is a source of goosebumps and pride.
Rio Marathon: An Immersive Experience and the Dream of Becoming a Major
The partnership between Adidas and the Rio Marathon has lasted five years and is solidifying as Brazil's largest running event. This year, Adidas elevates the experience to a new level, with the largest portfolio in history for the race: over 25 exclusive items, including apparel and shoes, rivaling collections from Majors like Berlin and Boston. The product colors are inspired by the Rio sunrise, celebrating the essence of the Marvelous City. In addition to a larger store at the Expo and a wider assortment of products, Adidas plans surprising activations throughout the city and along the course, transforming the event into a true festival. Rhebeka confirms that Adidas supports the dream of the Rio Marathon becoming a Major, working together with the organization to meet the necessary requirements.
The Resilience of a Marathoner in Leadership
Rhebeka's personal journey as a marathoner is marked by challenges and triumphs. After running the Princesses Marathon and Buenos Aires, she faced a femur fracture before the Chicago Marathon, requiring a rigorous process of physiotherapy and anti-gravity treadmill training. The decision to compete, even with the injury, demonstrated her marathoner's mindset, which she compares to managing a demanding career. In Boston, another challenge with shin edema was overcome by the support of her son, whose sign at kilometer 38 spurred her on. For Rhebeka, the discipline, the ability to deal with unforeseen circumstances, and the resilience learned in running are valuable attributes she applies to her role at Adidas, making her leadership even more authentic and inspiring.
The Rio Marathon promises to be a spectacle of overcoming challenges and celebration, where the passion for running meets innovation and the support of a brand that breathes sport. The city's energy and Adidas's dedication promise unforgettable moments for all runners and enthusiasts.
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