Hennessy lives by the mantra “Never stop. Never settle.” It also embodies the spirit of athleticism, competition, and determination that turns athletes into champions.
Our partners at Hennessy recently honored two such champions at the 2018 Jesse Owens Awards, an annual event supported by Hennessy that recognizes athletes “for exemplifying the ideals embodied by Olympian and humanitarian Jesse Owens: integrity, perseverance and service,” according to a statement from Hennessy.
This year’s celebration recognized Olympic gold medalist and living legend Bob Beamon for his significant athletic and philanthropic achievements, and posthumously honored world-champion cyclist Marshall "Major" Taylor for his groundbreaking achievements on and off the track.
In a nod to its historical importance, Bob Beamon’s award marked the 50th anniversary of his record-setting long jump of 29 ft. 2 ½", which is currently the longest-standing record in Olympic history (nearly 23 years), cementing his legacy in international sporting.
Marshall "Major" Taylor’s award, however, comes quickly on the heels of Hennessy’s latest "Wild Rabbit" campaign, which featured the incredible story of Taylor’s career as a world-champion cyclist. The campaign, which Hennessy released in April of this year, shines a light on the timeless nature of Taylor’s accomplishments and how he embodied the “Never stop. Never settle.” ethos of Hennessy. Cycling fans will of course recognize Taylor as one of the world’s very first African-American global sports champions, following his win at the World Track Championship in 1899.
Taylor’s great-granddaughter, Karen Brown-Donovan, was on hand to receive the award, presented by Giles Woodyer, Senior Vice President, Hennessy, who also invited guests to view the brand's short-form tribute documentary spotlighting Taylor's contributions to the sport of cycling.
Hennessy Cognac, the storied flagship brand of Moët Hennessy, has
supported the Jesse Owens Foundation for several years, supporting their work in perpetuating the ideals and life's work of Owens as both Olympic champion and humanitarian before his untimely death in 1980.
Breakthru is honored to join with our partners at Hennessy in aiding the Foundation’s great work and the positive impact it is having on future generations of athletes and citizens. Talk to your Breakthru Sales Consultant about how you can grow your business with Hennessy.