EDEN PRAIRIE, MINNESOTA — Starkey has announced elite sled dog musher Jessie Royer as its newest brand ambassador as she prepares for the 2026 racing season, which includes several major long-distance competitions such as the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.
Royer is a veteran endurance athlete and well-known competitor in the mushing community, having participated in numerous long-distance races across Alaska and North America. Events like the nearly 1,000-mile Iditarod require sustained physical endurance, strategic decision-making, and the ability to operate in some of the most demanding outdoor environments.
During these races, mushers encounter subzero temperatures, strong winds, remote terrain, and extended periods of isolation. Success depends not only on physical stamina and mental resilience but also on heightened awareness of the surrounding environment.
Hearing and Safety on the Trail
For Royer and other mushers, hearing plays an important role in both performance and safety. On the trail, competitors rely on auditory cues such as the sound of their dogs’ breathing and gait, shifting winds, nearby snowmobiles, and equipment noise when making decisions during long-distance races.
At the same time, prolonged exposure to barking dogs and mechanical noise may contribute to long-term hearing damage without appropriate protection.
Through the partnership, Starkey and Royer plan to highlight the role of hearing technology and hearing protection in challenging environments. Starkey’s Omega AI hearing aids are designed to deliver high-quality sound, extended battery life, and durability in conditions that may include moisture, snow, and cold temperatures.
“Hearing health is critical in every environment, from day-to-day interactions to high-performance, extreme settings. Jessie embodies resilience, focus, and endurance at the highest level across the sport of mushing. Her ability to compete in some of the world’s most challenging races while staying connected to her team and surroundings reflects exactly why protecting and prioritizing hearing matters. We’re proud to support her 2026 season and beyond.”
–Brandon Sawalich, President and CEO of Starkey
Raising Awareness About Hearing Health
As part of the collaboration, Royer will work with Starkey to raise awareness about hearing health, hearing protection, and the role of technology in maintaining communication and awareness in demanding environments.
“These races push you in every way,” said Royer. “Being aware of my team, the trail, and my surroundings is essential for safety and success. In extreme cold, wind, and long days on the trail, I need equipment I can rely on. Starkey’s hearing technology delivers the sound quality, battery life, and durability to perform in harsh conditions, and I’m proud to partner with them to highlight how important hearing health and protection are—not just in racing, but in everyday life.”
For more information about Starkey and its commitment to hearing innovation, visit www.starkey.com.
About Starkey
Starkey is a leading global innovator in hearing technology and AI-powered hearing aids, headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Since its founding by Bill Austin in 1967 and led today by Brandon Sawalich, Starkey has driven breakthroughs in unmatched sound clarity and machine learning and intelligent hearing technology. As the only American-owned hearing aid manufacturer, Starkey employs over 5,000 professionals across 29 facilities, delivering advanced hearing solutions to customers in 100+ markets worldwide.
Source: Starkey
