Goody Bag Ideas for Athletes

Athletes participate in events to test their mettle and achieve goals. Another boon to attending an event in their chosen sport is a goody bag. When athletes, such as runners or triathletes, pick up their racing bibs and timing chips, those staple items accompany a bag of items that complement their sport in some way.

  1. Apparel

    • Quality, lightweight technical shirts and hats, with a clear logo and attractive, eye-catching design, give athletes a tangible memento. An added benefit to giving athletes an article of clothing is that it is an immediate promotion for your event in the future and also works as a way to thank sponsors. Other apparel items to include are sport head bands and wrist bands to help absorb sweat. Sport socks also serve a practical purpose for athletes.

    Nutrition

    • Even if you plan to provide post-race nourishment such as pizza, fruit, potato chips or juice, including energy bars, gels or a replenishing drink in a goody bag serves as a an easy, handy snack. An athlete can stash the nutritional item into a pocket to eat during the race, or eat it before the event in case breakfast didn't fill them up. Choose something healthy that supports the athlete's efforts and supplies a boost of carbohydrates, protein and fat.

    Coupons and Gift Certificates

    • Ask local eateries, coffee shops, grocery stores and athletic stores to offer deals to your event participants by providing coupons or gift certificates to insert into each goody bag. Businesses will be excited to have an opportunity for wider exposure to their business by reaching out to potential customers or by reminding others who have previously visited to make another visit. In return for their coupon, credit them as one of your sponsors on T-shirts and on your website.

    Body Care Products

    • Body care products work as functional gifts for athletes. Provide sample size items of deodorant, body refreshing wipes, lotions, lip balm and facial cleansers. These items can prove handy on the day of the race or athletes can stow them in their gear bag for future use. Another body care item to consider is an NSAID such as ibuprofen, in case the athletes experience pain or discomfort after the event.