LOS ANGELES, California, April 18. GARY Hall Jr., inked a three-year deal, extending through 2010, with Speedo yesterday. Hall, who is looking for his fourth Olympic berth in 2008, is hoping to become the first Olympian to pull off a three-peat in the same event (50 free).
According to a release from Speedo, "the agreement with Speedo recognizes Hall's impact beyond this season as a U.S. National Team member and his expected Olympic return in Beijing. Prior to Beijing, Gary will work with Speedo Aqualab to lend his input to the research and development process of upcoming projects. Following the 2008 Games, Speedo will involve Hall in the brand's mission to promote Masters Swimming. The brand will also partner with Hall on his many philanthropic efforts."
"I am very excited to join Team Speedo," said Hall. "Speedo is the top name in swimwear both in the pool and out. I look forward to working with the brand as I continue my career in the water and also as a partner in numerous charitable efforts."
In an effort to continue his fight against diabetes, an illness Hall was diagnosed with in 1999, Speedo will donate an additional 10 percent of all Speedo performance bonuses earned by Hall to the Gary Hall Jr., Foundation for Diabetes.