Kellogg Co. renews U.S. Olympic Committee partnership

Kellogg Co. and the U.S. Olympic Committee have renewed a partnership that will see the cereal giant sponsor Team USA through 2020.

The extension means the Battle Creek-based company will be a major sponsor of the 2018 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea and the 2020 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo. Kellogg said its sponsorship category covers hot and cold cereal and granola, wholesome portable breakfasts and frozen breakfast.

Five members of Team Kellogg's, including gymnast Simone Biles, won a total of nine medals at this year's games in Rio de Janeiro.

"It is an honor to continue to be associated with the USOC, and to help the athletes of Team USA achieve their dreams of representing our country at the Olympic and Paralympic Games," Kellogg North America President Paul Norman said in a news release Tuesday. "Together, we will continue to celebrate the things that drive people to get up in the morning, and what inspires them to reach their full potential each day."

The company said it sponsored the Olympic Games from 1976-1992 and U.S. Olympic teams from 2000-2008. It renewed its commitment in 2012, sponsoring Team USA athletes in London, Sochi and Rio.

Among those on this year's roster for Team Kellogg's were Biles, swimmers Dana Torres and Tom Shields, track and field athlete Ajee' Wilson, soccer defender Julie Johnston, Paralympic discus athlete Natalie Bieule and Chicago Bulls guard Jimmy Butler.

"Kellogg has been a strong supporter of America's athletes, helping to provide the resources they need to pursue their dreams of competing in Olympic and Paralympic Games," USOC CEO Scott Blackmun was quoted as saying Tuesday.

"We are thrilled to continue this partnership as we engage people across the country and create excitement for Team USA."

Contact Dillon Davis at 269-966-0698 or dwdavis@battlecreekenquirer.com. Follow him on Twitter: @DillonDavis