Continuing its focus on enhanced product innovation and design, Saucony, Inc., a leading global supplier of performance athletic footwear and apparel and a division of The Stride Rite Corporation, has promoted Pat O'Malley (in photo) to the newly created position of vice president of global product, effective immediately. In his new role, O'Malley will now be responsible for the brand's worldwide footwear design, development, and engineering. O'Malley will report directly to Richie Woodworth, president of Saucony, who made the announcement today.

"Pat's proven track record, industry credibility and passion for product position him perfectly to succeed in the competitive global running market," said Woodworth. "In his five years with Saucony, Pat has played a significant role in the success of the brand, upgrading key products, advancing technical concepts and relentlessly pursuing meaningful innovation. Pat is a deeply respected industry veteran who is tirelessly devoted to creating great product for runners everywhere," added Woodworth.

Under O'Malley's direction, Saucony has earned numerous industry awards for both its road and trail products, including, most recently, Runner's World magazine's "Best Buy" for the ProGrid Jazz 12 and "Editor's Choice" for the ProGrid Xodus trail shoe, as well as Outside magazine's "The Gear of the Year" for the ProGrid Triumph 5.

O'Malley is credited with last year's launch of the brand's award-winning Flexion Plate technology, a revolutionary system that helps propel the runner forward, achieving the coveted Runner's World "International Best Innovation" Award. Also in 2007, the Independent Running Retailers Association named the ProGrid Omni 6 "Product of the Year" based on key advancements O'Malley introduced to the brand's flagship stability shoe.

Prior to his promotion, O'Malley served as vice president of product for Saucony since 2005, having joined the brand a year earlier as senior director of footwear. Before coming to Saucony, O'Malley spent four years at Reebok International as director of running and a decade with Nike in various positions within the running category.

O'Malley holds a B.A. and an MBA from University of Maine, Orno, where he captained both the cross country and track teams and achieved All-New England and All-Eastern status.

About Saucony, Inc.:

Saucony, Inc., a subsidiary of Collective Brands and a division of The Stride Rite Corporation is a leading global supplier of performance athletic footwear and apparel with its widely recognized brands Saucony and Saucony Originals. For more information, go to www.saucony.com