Balega International, the performance sock brand in the run and outdoor specialty markets, presented its annual Ubuntu Award to Colin Peddy and the team at Marathon Sports of Boston. The community service award was presented at The Running Event, a running industry trade show in Austin, TX.

Marathon Sports was awarded the Ubuntu in part because of its selfless caring for the Boston community and for the entire running community around the country following the tragic bombing during the 2013 Boston Marathon.

Ubuntu originated in Africa and roughly translates to "human kindness." The term, popularized by Nelson Mandela translates as "I am a person through other people," meaning only by banding together as a community and working together can we truly call ourselves human. It was Nelson Mandela who spread the meaning of Ubuntu. Ironically, Mandela's passing occurred the day of the award presentation and Mandela was honored with a few moments of silence.

"Marathon Sports went above and beyond this year with their support and generosity locally around Boston as well as their outreach to the greater running community," said Tanya Pictor, Vice President of Marketing and Sales, Balega, "Colin and his team at Marathon Sports embody the spirit of Unbuntu and we were thrilled to present them with this meaningful award."Marathon Sports located on Boylston Street in Boston, saw the first bomb explode in front of its store during the 2013 Boston Marathon attacks. Retail associates rushed to aid injured runners and spectators.

Colin Peddie, Owner and President of Marathon Sports, stated, "We are so honored to receive this award from Balega. It speaks to the Boston running community and the specialty retail channel that was so affected by the terrible bombing incident. Our employees, peers and retail partners came together as one community on that day and appreciate Balega's support and recognition."