The world of sports is no stranger to innovation, but the Portland Pickles are taking it to a whole new level. Last week, the Portland Pickles made history by becoming the first sports team in the United States to sell THC-infused beverages at live sports events. The partnership with Cycling Frog not only sets a precedent for the sports industry but also signifies a step toward the normalization of cannabis.
The Rise of Cannabis in Sports
The Portland Pickles, a collegiate wood bat team in the West Coast League, has teamed up with Cycling Frog, a company that makes hemp-derived THC seltzers. This collaboration will see the introduction of Cycling Frog’s THC Light Seltzer products at every Pickles home game in Walker Stadium, which started on the 18th. The available flavors, Passionfruit & Lemon, contain 2 MG of THC and 4 MG of CBD per can.
Cannabis has been a topic of discussion in the sports industry for years. While its medicinal benefits have been recognized and utilized by athletes, the idea of selling THC-infused products at sports events is relatively new.
Teams have partnered with various companies before, but this is the first time cannabis products will be sold at a live sporting event. The Portland Pickles’ partnership with Cycling Frog marks a significant milestone in this evolving conversation.
“The Portland Pickles have a responsibility in the sports industry to take leaps and set precedent of innovative partnerships. As we saw in 2019, becoming the first team to ever partner with a CBD company, and quickly teams all the way up to the Major League level across sports follow suit. We are very proud to provide an alternative option at our games with Cycling Frog Products for our incredible fans and the city of Portland!” said Portland Pickles Ross Campbell, VP of Business Development, in a press release about the partnership.
This partnership is more than just a business deal; it’s a statement. It signals the beginning of a new era where cannabis products are making their way into the sporting world and can be enjoyed in a social and recreational setting, much like alcohol. By leading the way, the Portland Pickles are paving the path for other teams and sports organizations to follow suit.
Enhancing the Game Day Experience with THC-Infused Beverages
For many fans, the experience of attending a live sports event is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the game itself. The introduction of THC beverages adds a new dimension to this experience, offering an alternative to traditional alcohol. Fans can now enjoy a refreshing THC-infused drink while cheering for their favorite team, making the game day experience even more enjoyable.
Just as with alcohol, responsible consumption is key. The sale of Cycling Frog’s THC Light Seltzer at Walker Stadium is fully compliant with state regulations, as the products contain 2 MG of hemp-derived THC per serving.
Normalizing Cannabis
One of the most significant aspects of this partnership is its potential to normalize cannabis consumption. By making THC beverages available at a sports venue, the Portland Pickles are helping to change perceptions and reduce the stigma associated with cannabis use. This move could encourage more mainstream acceptance and pave the way for further legalization efforts.
“We’re thrilled to be making history with The Portland Pickles. At Cycling Frog, we believe cannabis consumption should be normalized, accessible, and fun! What could be more normal than going to a baseball game and cheering for your local team? Making THC seltzers available at Pickles games is a huge step and we look forward to sparking a broader conversation via this partnership.” – Matt Palomares, VP Brand Marketing of Cycling Frog.
For sports teams and venues, this partnership represents a new revenue opportunity. With the increasing popularity of cannabis products, offering THC-infused beverages can attract a new demographic of fans and boost sales. This could be particularly beneficial for smaller teams and venues looking to diversify their revenue streams.
The Portland Pickles have a history of setting trends in the sports industry when it comes to cannabis. In 2019, they became the first team to partner with a CBD company, and now they are the first to offer THC beverages. This move could likely inspire other teams, from minor leagues to major leagues, to explore similar partnerships and innovations.
The Portland Pickles and Cycling Frog’s partnership marks a significant step forward in the normalization of cannabis consumption. By offering THC-infused beverages at live sports events, they are setting a precedent for the industry and opening up new possibilities for fan engagement and revenue generation. This move not only enhances the game day experience but also contributes to the broader conversation around cannabis.
