"We are pleased to report a solid start to fiscal 2018 with both our top and bottom line results surpassing guidance, reflecting solid growth in our core brands driven by the earlier shipment of Spring merchandise and strong gross margin expansion. Our razor sharp focus on maximising the potential of our core global brands by delivering a continuous flow of new innovative products while maintaining tight inventory discipline continued to serve us well in a difficult US retail environment, with particular strength in Golf Lifestyle Apparel and Nike Swim.  During the quarter, we also continued to make progress on our speed-to-market initiatives, which position us to bring new innovation to store faster at increasing margins and replenish the most sought after products in season," said Oscar Feldenkreis, chief executive officer and president. (RR)