Step 1 : Introduction to the question "What company was founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports?"
Nike, originally known as Blue Ribbon Sports, was founded by University of Oregon track athlete Philip Knight and his coach Bill Bowerman in January 1964. The company initially operated as a distributor for Japanese shoe maker Onitsuka Tiger, making most sales at track meets out of Knight's automobile. Blue Ribbon Sports hired Carolyn Davidson to design their classic "swoosh" logo in 1971 for $35. In 1971, Blue Ribbon Sports officially renamed itself to Nike, Inc. The company takes its name from Nike, the Greek goddess of victory.