LEXINGTON, MA (July 11, 2006)---Reinforcing the brand's performance running platform, Saucony, Inc., a subsidiary of The Stride Rite Corporation (NYSE: SRR) has formed a multi-year partnership with two-time USA Running Circuit (USARC) champion Ryan Shay.

Shay will train in Saucony's new ProGrid technology and compete in the brand's racing specific product line. "It's exciting to have such an innovative and performance-driven brand behind me," said Shay, the 2001 NCAA 10,000-meter champion and 2003 U.S. marathon champion.

A member of Team Running USA/California, Shay, 27, a nine-time All-American at Notre Dame, had four consecutive top 10 finishes in the 10,000 meters at the NCAA Championship including the 2001 national title. After college, Shay joined Team Running USA, an elite training group that includes Olympic medalists Meb Keflezighi and Deena Kastor. Other career highlights include: 2003 and 2004 USA Half-Marathon champion; 2004 USA 20K champion; 2005 USA 15K Champion; and 2003 and 2004 USA Running Circuit Grand Prix champion. When not training with Team Running USA in Mammoth Lakes, CA, he resides in East Jordan, MI.

While training, Shay will wear Saucony products with ProGrid technology, the evolution of Saucony's patented Grid system. The ProGrid Triumph 4 will launch at retail in November 2006. On race day, Shay will toe the line in Saucony's lightweight selection of performance racing shoes, including the Grid Fastwitch 2, offered in Custom Ride Management(R) options for speed or endurance.

For more information, go to www.saucony.com.