Victory.

Zeus gathered is allies at the beginning of the Titan War. Styx, a firm ally, she brought him four children, Zelos (Rivalry), Kratos (Strength), Bia (Force) and Nike (Victory). Nike was appointed Zeus's charioteer, and all four were appointed as sentinels standing beside the throne of the god.


Nike had strengths described as a very fast runner and a swift flyer. She is always shown with wings and either the wreath of victory or staff.


Nike has an interesting, but extremely short story...so why is there a billion dollar company named after her?

The story of the Nike company emanates from two sources: Bill Bowerman's quest for lighter, more durable racing shoes for his Oregon runners, and Phil Knight's search for a way to make a living without having to give up his love of athletics.


The story and strength behind Nike, as a brand, imitates itself in each and every commercial. As an advertising student, there has to be a love and respect for great work. There has to be a solution to the problem. There has to be a successful triumph, a victory.


The recent LeBron and Michael Jordan commercial stemmed my interest into watching the decades of Nike, and other sports company's, commercials. In hindsight, I have always been drawn to the intense "I can do anything" commercials. This message tends to be a resounding effect in every sports company commercial.


These commercials are motivating. These commercials are inspiring. These commercials are real. And most of all, these commercials are a triumphant story of an athlete's life. 


Nike has done an excellent job of living up to its name. The athletes and ideas that represent the company embody a victorious, yet often understated, Greek Goddess. Nike most prominently uses well known athletes. The difference is that Nike does not concentrate on the 30 seconds to 4 hours of greatness that can be witnessed on any TV throughout the world, instead they concentrate on the hard work and the effort it takes to achieve the greatness.  Each commercial tells a story, whether it be one of victory or defeat, pain or love. 


I have included a few of my favorite Nike commercials.

So you get the point. I could go on and on with the Nike commercials....go check some out and I am sure you will be ready to change the world, if not yourself.

"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat."

- Malcolm S. Forbes