Overview
- Nike confirmed on August 19 that Quenlin Blackwell will join its talent roster in a year-long deal that includes running the Nike After Dark Tour: LA 13.1 on Oct. 24 and fronting a forthcoming campaign with a key retail partner.
- Blackwell, 25, will document weeks of training before the Oct. 24 half-marathon and says the partnership has pushed her beyond previous creative and performance disciplines.
- Nike described the collaboration as a blend of sport, fashion, entertainment and internet culture meant to expand how the company defines an athlete and movement.
- The hire extends Nike’s recent influencer and running plays, following earlier creator appointments like Brett Chody and product moves such as NikeSkims, with running cited as one of the brand’s stronger growth categories.
- The partnership uses experiential race events and creator storytelling to deepen Nike’s connection with younger shoppers and could boost retail interest and event attendance as the campaign rolls out.