American Parkour has always taken a stance against Red Bull's presence in Parkour - we want to spread a clear message that "Wings" come from hard training - not from a can. Because of this members of the Tribe were not allowed to take part in Red Bull's Art of Motion events. That policy is now changing. We still hold strong that progressive training, proper rest, goal setting and a healthy balanced diet are the keys to success. We feel that Tribe member participation in the Red Bull events is not in itself and endorsement of Red Bull, and that possibly the contrary, we may be able to use it as a platform to further our stance against the perception that energy drinks are good for you or have more positive benefits than negative effects.

Read More to see excerpts from an internal email from Tribe Manager Mark Toorock to the team ...   

Guys,

After the input you've all provided, and after completely wracking my brains as to what is actually for the greater good, I have decided that Tribe members are allowed to compete in Redbull AOM.

Please be aware that this may have ramifications, as APK's official stance against Redbull's participation in Parkour, and against energy drinks in general has not changed.

No APK athlete may be sponsored by an energy drink.

We run the risk of losing someone if they decide to be Redbull's poster child, or if Redbull uses their position to make it seem as if an APK athlete endorses the drink, drinks, or company as opposed to only participating in the event. I have made it perfectly clear that I will keep a hard line on that, so if you chose to participate and this happens, you have been advised.

In the event of people submitting videos, while you may be excited about the competition (obviously, you won't get in if you say "redbull sucks let me compete"), however you must be neutral to the company, again, no member of an APK team may endorse the products or the company, and this will be grounds for immediate dismissal.

To be safe, please clear any text, messages, or things you want to say in the video with me beforehand, discussing afterwards will not be sufficient.

I appreciate all your input, thanks for being the greatest guys I know!

M2