Ryka Celebrates Business Partnership With Kelly Ripa at New York City Event

Ryka, the leader in stylish performance athletic footwear and apparel designed exclusively for women, celebrated its business partnership with Kelly Ripa at the Powerhouse at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, N.Y. on May 14. As the brand's spokesperson, Kelly will oversee design of a fitness-inspired line, The Kelly Ripa Collection(TM), with select footwear styles launching at exclusive retailers beginning this October.

"We are proud to announce Kelly Ripa as the new face of ryka," said Tom O'Riordan, CEO of American Sporting Goods, parent company of ryka. "For over two decades, ryka's all female design team has created products designed exclusively for women. Kelly was chosen because she embodies the women who inspire our brand. She's passionate about fitness and knows the positive impact connecting with her inner athlete has had on all aspects of her life."

The partnership celebration drew a packed crowd including members of the media, industry executives and retailers. Guests enjoyed hors d'oeuvres and ginger-infused cocktails in a hip, loft environment. During the event, American Sporting Goods' CEO O'Riordan and Kelly addressed party goers with a toast celebrating the partnership.

"I am thrilled to be part of the ryka family and to be designing products that I can wear in my daily quest to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle," said Kelly Ripa. "Women are willing to sacrifice for fashion, but they shouldn't have to sacrifice for fitness. My collection will continue the ryka tradition while incorporating stylish designs, technical performance details and comfort; three essential ingredients for active women everywhere."

Event attendees were able to preview the new print ad campaign featuring Kelly, along with a sneak peek of the fall '08 Kelly Ripa Collection(TM) and spring '09 ryka footwear line. An interactive fit zone also allowed guests to select a complimentary pair of ryka shoes.

Additional information regarding ryka's partnership with Kelly will be released soon including collection details, retail pricing and store locations.

About ryka

For over two decades, ryka has innovated stylish performance athletic footwear and apparel. Designed exclusively to fit the unique biomechanics of active women, everything ryka creates is designed by women. All ryka shoes are produced from a high-tech women's last (form) for the perfect fit -- narrower in the heel and wider in the forefoot for unsurpassed comfort and athletic performance. Visit www.ryka.com for more information.