Feeling Patriotic? Retro Stars-and-Stripes Kit Raises Funds for Military Athletes

In honor of Veterans Day 2020, USMES and Pactimo introduce the USMES Retro Kit, honoring the US Military. The limited-edition stars-and-stripes design raises funds for US Military Endurance Sports, a 501(c)3 supporting endurance sports for active duty and Veteran members of the US Military. USMES developed the Retro Kit through Pactimo’s Jersey for a Cause™ program. “During this tumultuous year, we’ve seen unprecedented demand for USMES member services, coupled with fundraising uncertainty,” said USMES Executive Director Mandy Midgett. “Pactimo understands this, and they’ve stepped up their support big time. We are grateful to have them as a partner.” The kit can be purchased the week of Veterans Day through Monday November 16, for delivery the week of December 22.

USMES athletes Jataya Taylor and Tristan Manderfeld were photographed for the Veterans Day campaign by noted outdoor photographer (and Pactimo Brand Manager) Adam Pawlikiewicz Mesa.

Marine Corp Veteran Jataya Taylor is a Paralympic hopeful for Nordic skiing, and is working towards qualification for the national paracycling team. Taylor was seriously injured in two Marine Corps training accidents, and was medically retired. “I began cycling as a way to help with my mental health while recovering from my injuries,” said Taylor. “I decided I wanted to see my full potential and pick up where I left off.” Today, Taylor’s ultimate goal is to represent the USA at both the summer and winter Paralympic games.

Army Engineer Officer Tristan Manderfeld spent 2019 track racing from L.A. to Trexlertown and from Trinidad to China, as part of the Army’s World Class Athlete Program. After a socially-distanced 2020, Manderfeld looks forward to returning to international UCI racing, with the long-term goal of competing in the Olympics. “After an initial season learning the ropes in the highest category of racing in the world,” said Manderfeld, “I am eager to come back and improve on my accomplishments.”

“While Pactimo has a long heritage of supporting veterans groups, I was especially thrilled as a former Marine and combat veteran when we were selected as the official clothing partner by U.S. Military Endurance Sports,” said Tony Kelsey, VP Marketing at Pactimo. “USMES does a fantastic job promoting endurance sports as part of a healthy lifestyle, to both veterans and active members of the U.S. Armed Forces. Everyone at Pactimo is proud to be part of that mission and to give back to those who have sacrificed so much in service to our country.”