The Quaker Brand Backs Local Runner to Inspire Others in Toronto Half Marathon

The brand's "You've Got This" spirit rings loud and clear as Quaker supports local Torontonian to not only finish his first half marathon, but help others to cross the finish line as well

TORONTO, May 14, 2024 /CNW/ - Quaker Canada recently celebrated its global "You've Got This" brand platform by supporting an aspiring runner as he trained for and ran the Toronto Half Marathon on May 5^th. Embodying the true essence of the brand, Quaker challenged this runner with a special, unprecedented purpose: to help as many people as possible cross the finish line.

Dubbed the Quaker Humble Runner, Kevin Doe ? a Toronto high school teacher with a selfless dedication to helping others ? took on training for and completing his very first half marathon. Armed with a notable coach, a seven-week training program and an array of Quaker® Protein products, Kevin flipped the typical goal of finishing first on its head. Instead of focusing on his own "personal best," Kevin supported as many fellow marathoners as he could, running alongside them for continued encouragement and inspiration, exemplifying what it means to be a true "humble hero."  

"This initiative goes beyond a mere race," said Logan Chambers, Senior Director of Marketing at PepsiCo Foods Canada. "It underscores the Quaker brand's commitment to recognizing everyday heroes who inspire others to persevere through challenges. We weren't training Kevin to run his fastest and set a new personal best ? we were helping unleash his warm-hearted spirit so he could help others and remind those around him that 'You've Got This.'"

Partnering with fitness and lifestyle coach Eva Redpath, Quaker Canada ensured that Kevin was fully prepared for his special mission on race day through a comprehensive training program, sharing the journey on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Canadians also took part in the fun by following him on Strava and joining The Quaker® Protein Running Challenge, resulting in an overwhelming positive response with 29,000 sign-ups.

"There was a time when marathons were reserved for the ultra-athletic, but we're seeing a shift where these events have now evolved into a celebration of resilience, determination, and the extraordinary feats of all individuals," said Eva Redpath. "By intentionally being one of the last to cross the finish line, Kevin shined a spotlight on the everyday heroes who find joy in inspiring others to reach their full potential."

When asked about his involvement, Kevin Doe remarked, "We live in a time where community and connection are so important. Anyone can be a Humble Runner or local hero: by actively engaging in our own communities, by supporting local folks wherever they are on their own personal journeys, and by celebrating successes, big or small." 

The campaign was supported by the Quaker brand's expanded line of products that provide protein. These high-in-protein offerings ? including instant oatmeal, granola cereal and pancake mix ? played a pivotal role in supporting the Humble Runner's training journey, offering protein-packed breakfast-time options without compromising on the delicious Quaker taste Canadians know and love. But further to that, this campaign showed that Quaker Protein products aren't just part of ordinary mornings; they represent the springboard for individuals to live their best lives and make the most of every day. 

With their great taste and nutritional quality, Quaker Protein products give Canadians a protein-packed breakfast option that makes everything that needs doing, possible. The brand invites Canadians to take on the challenge of being a humble hero in their own lives, inspired by our Humble Runner's journey.

To learn more about the fulsome campaign and extended Quaker Protein line of products, visit the Quaker Canada website at QuakerProteinYouveGotThis.ca.

A leader in the Canadian food industry since 1902, the Quaker brand features food products with a wide range of choices. For more information, please visit quakeroats.ca.

PepsiCo Foods Canada is comprised of the Frito Lay Canada and Quaker Canada businesses. Frito Lay Canada is the country's largest snack food manufacturer and the company's brands include Lay's, Doritos, Tostitos, Ruffles, Smartfood, Cheetos and Havoc. The company employs over 6,000 Canadians with seven manufacturing plants and sales and distribution facilities from coast to coast. The Quaker brand portfolio includes a wide range of wholesome cereals, oatmeal, rice and corn snacks and snack bars, and features other prominent brands such as Quaker Life, Quaker Chewy, Quaker Harvest Crunch and Crispy Minis. For more information, please visit www.pepsico.ca.

Strava is the largest sports community in the world and the leading platform for movement. Over 100 million athletes in 195 countries and more than 30 types of activities with features to help you explore, connect and measure your progress ? whatever your activity and goals, you'll have a community at your back. For more information, visit www.strava.com/about. 

SOURCE Quaker Canada