Balega Debuts Fifth Limited Edition ‘Grit and Grace’ Collection to Benefit Breast Cancer Prevention Partners

September 25, 2018

Durham, N.C. (Sept. 25, 2018) – Balega, a leading performance sock brand in the run specialty market, is proud to announce its continued support of Breast Cancer Prevention Partners (BCPP) with the release of its fifth limited edition Grit and Grace collection. One dollar from every pair of Grit and Grace socks sold will benefit BCPP, which is a science-based advocacy organization that works to prevent breast cancer by eliminating exposure to toxic chemicals and radiation.

This year’s Grit and Grace line features three inspirational phrases embroidered into the toe of each brightly colored and uniquely designed sock. Each of the phrases were submitted by Balega fans who were inspired by people and experiences in their lives. The phrases this year are: Be the Light; Courage Rules; and Forever Forward. 

Danielle Shively, of Lafayette, Indiana began her fitness journey as a group fitness instructor who enjoyed helping to inspire others to achieve their goals. Danielle submitted Be the Light because, “It is about being that individual who can shine down on someone and help an individual through any struggle they might be facing and having the strength to carry them on. It may be be with people and their fitness goals, people fighting cancer, or maybe on the race course helping encourage someone who thought they couldn’t make it.” 

Jen Shull also submitted Be the Light. “In 2011, my then 20-month-old daughter, Lilli, was diagnosed with brain cancer. Our sweet girl relapsed in 2015 and we lost her suddenly in February 2017 at the age of 7 ½ . Anyone who met her experienced her light. Her hugs were something you longed for on a bad day. Her smile or laugh could warm your heart like the sun shining upon you. We should all go out each day and be someone’s light…smile, offer a hand, give a hug. Be the light.”

Julie Gross from California says her phrase, Courage Rules, is simple: “Leaving my comfort zone, a combined element of perseverance, overcoming obstacles and barriers to a successful outcome. Whether it is through Sport, Spirit, Life; never visualize failure. Through love, kindness and compassion, these elements are all part of the human condition; with COURAGE, we will RULE!!” Julie practices this by surrounding herself with a circle of women who motivate, invigorate and continue to challenge her to grow, explore and light the flame within. 

Last but not least, Nikkia Young from Richmond, Virginia is a 26-year-old runner, yogi and fitness enthusiast who spends her free time volunteering with Girls on the Run and the Richmond Road Running Club. Nikkia’s phrase, Forever Forward, is a personal reminder about her commitment to physical fitness. “The word ‘forward’ has been an important word for me since I started running and working out. It doesn’t have to be fast or be the first but “forward” for me means progress. Forever forward is another way of saying ‘never give up and don’t quit, as long as you are moving forward, you are a winner.’”

In a world where socks can make a difference, we invite you to support Balega’s Grit and Grace initiative, in turn supporting BCPP’s mission of prevention. Balega’s Grit and Grace socks will retail for $13 per pair and will be available at your local run specialty store and at Balega.com for a limited time, beginning October 1. For additional information, visit https://balega-socks.implus.com/giving-back. To find a Balega retailer near you, please visit https://balega-socks.implus.com/locations. 

About Balega International
A leading performance sock brand in the run specialty market, Balega is a designer and manufacturer of technical performance socks and part of the Implus family of brands. With a proud American-South African initiative, the company develops its product in both South Africa and North Carolina production facilities utilizing the best performance yarns produced in the United States. Crafted for a superior fit and unmatched comfort, Balega is committed to the technical excellence, quality, and performance expected in the Balega brand. A brand with ‘sole,’ Balega prides itself on its commitment to the community with projects aimed at enriching those less fortunate than ourselves. For more information, please visit www.balega.com.

About Implus International
A leading performance sock brand in the run specialty market, Balega is a designer and manufacturer of technical performance socks and part of the Implus family of brands. With a proud American-South African initiative, the company develops its products in both South Africa and North Carolina production facilities utilizing the best performance yarns produced in the United States. Crafted for a superior fit and unmatched comfort, Balega is committed to the technical excellence, quality, and performance expected from the Balega brand. For more information, visit www.implus.com.