Putting on the glitz for Rio
Jewelry maker gives athletes a little sparkle
If you’re watching Canadian Olympic athletes in Rio in August, you might notice a little more sparkle than usual.
Regina-based jewelry company Hillberg and Berk announced its licensing partnership with the Canadian Olympic Team in Rio on Wednesday morning.
“Hillberg and Berk is all about empowering women, and we’ve specifically been looking at how we can support female athletes in Canada,” said Rachel Mielke, founder and CEO of Hillberg and Berk.
Men won’t be left out — every athlete on the Canadian Olympic team will receive a pair of the shiny red sparkle ball earrings.
A portion of sales will go to the Canadian Olympic Committee to support athletes in training and travel to the Games.
Mielke said the proceeds may be the “tangible” support; however, Canadians can truly show their patriotism by wearing the earrings.
A month and a half ago, Mielke reached out to the Canadian Olympic Committee. She informed them of Hillberg’s interest in licensing and “they were really excited about the possibility of working with us.” After only a few weeks of planning, “everything came together quite quickly.”
Watching Olympic athletes compete, accessorized in the Hillberg brand, is a dream come true for Mielke.
Not everyone likes the idea of jewelry-clad competitors.
“I think it’s great that something local is being recognized at that level, but I just wonder how serious athletes are when they’re wearing a necklace or earrings (while they compete),” said Jana Davies, a Regina resident who played baseball and volleyball throughout her teens. “I can see how it would be distracting to competitors.”
It may seem odd to see Olympians sporting jewelry, but many events allow it — including artistic gymnastics, track and field and swimming.
“Obviously some sports lend themselves more to being able to accessorize. I just think it comes down to the athlete ... we know the product will stay on even when athletes are competing,” said Mielke.
The jewelry has a sterling silver piece on the back to extend its durability.
The earrings are not waterproof, but the design team is considering it for future collections.
Canadian Olympic team sparkle ball earrings are available in-store or online.