Berkeley, CA -- PowerBar Inc., creator and leader of the energy bar category, today announced an open call for applications for the 2003 PowerBar "Team Elite" sponsorship program.

Each year, PowerBar sponsors over 2,000 athletes, coaches and teams that demonstrate and communicate the positive attributes of the PowerBar brands in the towns and cities in which they live. Whether through personal success in competition or coaching others to achievement in their sport, PowerBar is looking to support individuals and teams who believe in the companyıs products and who lead by example, both on and off the playing fields. "PowerBar Team Elite influencers inspire us with their passion and commitment to sports," said Tanya Clark, Sports Marketing Manager for PowerBar. "We look to them to represent PowerBar in the communities in which they live and compete, as well as to help educate the public on the benefits of PowerBar products."

WHAT: The PowerBar Team Elite program provides over 2,000 individuals and team members with PowerBar energy products and gear for training and competition. Additionally, Team members are provided with guidelines for community involvement and self-promotion.

HOW: To submit an application visit the PowerBar website at www.powerbar.com.

WHEN: Applications are available online from August 1st through October 15th, 2002. Team members will be selected and announced by January 2003.

BACKGROUND: PowerBar is a company deeply rooted in the spirit of competition and was created BY athletes FOR athletes. This marks the fourteenth year of the PowerBar Team Elite sponsorship program. Athletes, coaches and teams are chosen from all levels of competition based on their love and dedication to their sport and their endorsement of PowerBar products.

— Posted by Ari Cheren, MountainZone.com Gear Editor