Too Ontario – Athletics Canada announced today a multi-year partnership with the Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery from Barrie, Ont.

“Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery is in alignment with our brand and the culture of intensity that defines Canadian athletes,” said Athletics Canada’s Chief Executive Officer Rob Guy. “The brewery’s leadership team is innovative, likes to have fun and strives to maintain the utmost quality in everything they do. They understand athletics and its nuances, which is a rare and real bonus to our partnership.”

Flying Monkeys Founder and President, Peter Chiodo, is an alumnus of the sport winning the Steeplechase at Junior Nationals in 1985 and later attending the University of Alabama on a full track and field scholarship.“There’s no question craft beer has a prominent place in the world of athletics. Post-run beers or cold brews after tough workouts are ingrained in our culture,” said Chiodo. “No matter how old or out-of-shape athletes get, we always want to give back to the sports that formed us. That’s why we’re so excited to support an organization that is such a big part of my and, ultimately, the Flying Monkeys’ success.”

Doug Consiglio, Flying Monkeys’ Eastern Ontario Territory Manager, 1988 Canadian Olympic 1500-metre runner and Athletics Canada alumnus, first promoted the idea of a craft beer and Athletics Canada partnership. “I find the mentality of Craft Brewers is a lot like runners – neither of us attempts anything that isn’t a challenge,” said Consiglio. The Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery is also the Official Craft Beer Sponsor of Canadian runner Corey Bellemore, the current two-time Beer Mile World record holder.

Beginning July 5 at the Canadian Track & Field Championships in Ottawa, fans can enjoy the Flying Monkeys’ award-winning craft beers at Athletics Canada events, including Track & Field in the 6ix that will take place in Toronto from Aug. 10-12 and at the Canadian Cross Country Championships in Kingston later in the fall.