Every year the Idaho Potato Commission’s (IPC) commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle becomes deeper and more impactful. This is evident by the events the IPC sponsors, its partnerships with select organizations and celebrities, and its strong affiliation with the American Heart Association.
The IPC’s longest-running sponsorship, which coincidentally supports an active lifestyle, is the YMCA Famous Idaho Potato Marathon. In its 37th year, the marathon is recognized nationally and is a qualifying race for the prestigious Boston Marathon. This year the event is taking place along the Boise, Idaho Greenbelt on Saturday, May 30. In addition to the marathon, there are half-marathon, 10K and 5K races available. Walkers are also welcome. And, of course, it wouldn’t be a true Potato Marathon without potatoes. The IPC’s mascot, Spuddy Buddy, will be at the finish line high-fiving the runners who will then be treated to an Idaho baked potato bar. This family-oriented event draws more and more participants every year, and I have no doubt the IPC will continue to be its primary sponsor.
Continuing its support of athletes, the IPC recently became the leading sponsor of an elite triathlon group who races for a nonprofit, RODS Racing (Racing for Orphans with Down Syndrome). The mission of RODS is to help find adoptive families in the U.S. for children around the world who have Down syndrome. More than 420 team members across the country, including 220 junior members, compete in nationally recognized and local events wearing a jersey with the Famous Idaho Potato logo on the front. The IPC also incorporates RODS into its marketing programs when appropriate and has made a generous financial donation. The IPC’s support has helped find homes in U.S. for several orphaned children.
For the past two years, the IPC has worked closely with Boise native and ESPN/ABC college football sideline reporter Heather Cox to remind football fans of the nutritious value of Idaho potatoes. By creating short videos (including a cooking demo), hosting contests on the IPC’s social media channels, and securing feature articles about “staying healthy on the road,” Heather has helped us reach an audience that goes beyond women ages 25 to 54 to remind a younger generation that Idaho potatoes are a healthy food and should be a part of today’s lifestyle.
Another of the IPC’s most important associations is with the American Heart Association.
Idaho potatoes have been recognized as a heart-healthy food by the American Heart Association since 2011. We proudly display the well-recognized heart check mark in promotional materials and on our website.
Several Idaho shippers also have it displayed on their bags.
Personally, I am deeply committed to living a healthy lifestyle and encouraging others to do so, too. In the past year I became a member of the Board of Directors of the American Heart Association’s Boise chapter. It’s an honor to be a part of this prestigious group and part of a national movement that helps educate and motivate folks to make healthy decision for themselves and their families. I also run every year in one of our Famous Idaho Potato races. I invite you to join me on May 30!