Principality Building Society to Sponsor Senior Open Championship

Welsh bank Principality Building Society has agreed to support The Senior Open Championship Presented by Rolex, bronchi which will be played in Wales for the first time this summer.

Established more than 150 years ago, abortion Principality is the UK’s sixth largest building society, with 70 outlets throughout Wales and the borders and more than 500,000 members. It is backing Wales’ first Senior Major Championship, which will be played at Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, in Bridgend, from July 24-27.

Graeme Yorston, Group Chief Executive at Principality Building Society, said: “We are delighted to be supporting The Senior Open Championship, which comes to Wales for the first time since it was launched in 1987. Prestigious events such as this help to attract substantial investment into Wales and we hope that the success of the championship will help to attract other high profile events to this beautiful country.”

Principality has been a strong supporter of sport in Wales and as title sponsor of the Principality Junior Wales Open for the past four years it has helped to support and discover the next generation of Welsh golfing talent. 

The building society has now extended that association to The Senior Open Championship, which is set to attract some of the game’s most iconic names to Wales, including Fred Couples, Miguel Angel Jiménez, Bernhard Langer, Sandy Lyle, Tom Watson, Welshman Ian Woosnam and Scotland’s Colin Montgomerie, who led Europe to Ryder Cup glory at The Celtic Manor Resort four years ago. 

Yorston added: “Principality is proud to support our communities in Wales and our partnership programme is designed to celebrate our nation’s arts, sports and culture as well as give something back to our loyal customers.  

“The Senior Open will allow us to reward our Members throughout Wales and the borders and we hope that they will keep an eye out for the competitions that we will be holding in our branches and online over the next few months to let them be part of such an exciting event in their heartland.”

Andy Stubbs, Managing Director of the European Senior Tour, said on behalf of the Championship:  “The Senior Open Championship is set to be one of the biggest golf events to have been staged in Wales and we are delighted that Principality, a leading Welsh organisation, will be part of it.

“Principality has already shown its commitment to golf through its support of the Junior Wales Open, so we look forward to working together at Royal Porthcawl in July.”

Castrol EDGE Named Official Oil Partner of V8 Supercars

Lubricants supplier Castrol has secured naming rights to a V8 Supercars event in North Queensland.

The Castrol Townsville 500 in July is one of two V8 Supercar properties the world’s leading specialist provider of lubricant solutions will place its’ brand with this year.

Castrol EDGE has also become the Official Oil Partner of the V8 Supercars Championship.

The Castrol Townsville 500 is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland as part of a growing calendar of sporting, cultural and regional events throughout the State. 

V8 Supercars CEO James Warburton said the multi-year commitment from Castrol had continued the success of the sport in bringing on new Championship and event partners.

“Castrol is widely acknowledged as the world’s leading specialist provider of lubricant solutions and has enjoyed a rich history within V8 Supercars racing since its’ inception,” Warburton said.

“Castrol has one of the strongest pedigrees in motorsport through leadership in technology and commercial support of teams, drivers and organisations from a raft motorsport disciplines across decades of involvement.

“As a company entrenched in world motorsport it is a logical step to add Australia’s biggest category, and one of the biggest sports, to its’ brand portfolio.

“The Townsville event particularly enjoys amazing support in North Queensland, massive profile and visitation as is simply a world class show.

“To extend the Townsville sponsorship with the Official Oil Partner shows that Castrol is right behind this Championship and the exposure it will bring to the brand.”

General Manager of Castrol Australasia Sean Rahaley is excited by the new partnership which is set to put Castrol EDGE front of mind amongst Australia’s loyal motorsport fan base.

“Castrol has enjoyed a rich history in Australian motor racing and continuing this in an official capacity with one of the greatest touring car championships in the world is an exciting time for our organisation, V8 Supercars and the fans.

“I’m certainly looking forward to seeing an increased presence in the sport on top of our already strong association with the Pepsi Max Crew FPR, Supercheap Auto Racing and Nissan Motorsport outfits.

“Castrol EDGE with Titanium Fluid Strength Technology is our strongest oil and thus we have chosen to partner with one of the largest racing categories in the world.”

The Official Oil designation means Castrol EDGE, the brand’s strongest, most advanced oil, is showcased at each of the circuits across the 2014 Championship.

The Castrol EDGE brand will also present V8 Supercars latest telecast concept, an official kilometre counter during each of the live races across the Seven Network.

Further to this, the sponsorship arrangement will result in the current Teams’ Championship becoming the Castrol EDGE Teams’ Trophy. 

Castrol Australia Marketing Director Diana Hall shadowed Rahaley’s thoughts and is excited by the opportunity to link the Castrol EDGE product directly back to the brand’s key demographic. 

“Castrol’s DNA has become anchored in motorsport over generations and is the perfect brand fit within the V8 Supercars community,” said Hall.

“We’re always searching for opportunities to continually push the boundaries and what better place than within the V8 Supercar environment’s extreme and punishing conditions for car and driver.”

Cristiano Ronaldo Becomes TAG Heuer Brand Ambassador

Watch manufacturer TAG Heuer have announced today a long-term endorsement deal with football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo who will be a TAG Heuer Brand Ambassador.

Two-time Ballon d’Or winner, Real Madrid forward and Captain of the Portugal team for the coming World Cup in Brazil,Cristiano Ronaldo joins an illustrious roster of TAG Heuer sports stars and celebrities that includes film actors Cameron Diaz and Leonardo DiCaprio, WTA tennis champion Maria Sharapova, Formula One World Champion Jenson Button, World Rally Champion Sebastien Ogier and the entire crew of 2013 America’s Cup winner Oracle Team USA. Past members have included actors Brad Pitt and Uma Thurman, golfing great Tiger Woods, and the most legendary names in the history of Formula One, from Ayrton Senna to Kimi Raikkonen, Fernando Alonso, Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton.

“TAG Heuer is by far the best at what it does,” said Cristiano Ronaldo, “and has been for more than 150 years. No other luxury brand has such strong ties to the highest levels of sports. It is incredibly glamorous yet also so unconventional, and we share exactly the same determination: to totally change the game, push the limits and make our own rules. It is a great honor to be a part of such a powerful and pioneering legacy.”

“Every TAG Heuer creation celebrates intense life in the contemporary arena, and no individual represents this more powerfully than Cristiano,” said TAG Heuer CEO Stephane Linder.

“Like TAG Heuer, Cristiano demands perfection and pushes himself harder than anyone in his domain. This is the first time we enter the world of football, and it’s a perfect fit to do that with Cristiano, opening a new trend and a new way to engage with our fans. Sports is part of our tradition because we share the same values: self motivation and discipline, pushing one’s limit, never giving up.”

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Suretone to Sponsor Andretti Autosport’s Kurt Busch at Indy 500

Suretone will sponsor Andretti Autosport and driver Kurt Busch when he participates in his effort to compete in his first Indianapolis 500.

Busch will drive the No. 26 Suretone car as he attempts to become the fourth driver to contest the “Double” — competing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” and at Charlotte Motor Speedway in a stock car race later on May 25.

“It’s an exciting day,” Busch said. “Reality is setting in that this is real and it’s go time. For me, it’s a dream come true, but the kid in a candy store moment is all behind me. Now it’s the focus of practice time and settling in with Andretti Autosport. Just to have Andretti Autosport and to have (team owner) Michael (Andretti) himself involved, this is the right way to do things. Their team experience will help lead my inexperience.”

Busch is scheduled to join 1995 Indianapolis 500 winner Jacques Villeneuve on the 2.5-mile oval April 29 for testing.

“We are honored to have Suretone Entertainment stand with Andretti Autosport and Kurt Busch in this historic event as Kurt enters his first Indianapolis 500 qualifying run, as well as attempts to become only the fourth driver in motorsport history to contest the ‘Double’,” said Schur, Suretone Entertainment chairman. “As Kurt moves towards his goal to drive in the Indy 500 and NASCAR’s 600-mile race on the same day, Suretone takes great pride to partner with Andretti Autosport as we support Kurt in his incredible endeavor.”

Sponsors Leave LA Clippers in their Droves after Owners Controversial Comments

Sponsors are leaving the Los Angeles Clippers in their droves following the controversial comments made by owner, Donald Sterling.

As the condemnation of Sterling and his racially insensitive comments spread Monday, major financial supporters of the NBA franchise announced they were severing ties with the Clippers.

Sponsors that have departed include CarMax, State Farm Insurance, Kia Motors America, airline Virgin America, P. Diddy’s water brand, AQUAHydrate, Red Bull, Yokohama tires and Mercedes-Benz.

AQUAHydrate said in a statement: “In the wake of Donald Sterling’s alleged defamatory and intolerable comments we have decided to suspend our sponsorship with the L.A. Clippers until the NBA completes its investigation. We fully support the players and fans of the L.A. Clippers and wish them the best in the remainder of the playoffs.”

Yokohama also suspended their sponsorship: “Yokohama Tire Corporation does not tolerate discrimination in any fashion. The alleged remarks by Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling are completely unacceptable and we find it necessary to immediately suspend our sponsorship of the organization as a result. We will continue to assess the situation and weigh our options. Meanwhile, we wish to express our continued support to the Clippers players and fans.”

Staples Center, home to the Clippers, issued its own statement Monday:

“We are deeply troubled by these disturbing remarks which go against everything we believe in as an organization. We support the players, the coaches, the rest of the team and their fans and we are committed to providing a safe, secure and welcoming environment for everyone” at Tuesday’s Game 5 of the Clippers’ first-round playoff series against the visiting Golden State Warriors. The series is tied at 2-2.

Club finances aren’t made public, so it is not known how much money the loss of sponsorships has cost the Clippers, or the NBA.

Bath Rugby Extends with Official Partner IPL

Bath Rugby have renewed their partnership with consultancy and full-service IT company IPL through the 2014-15 season.

IPL will remain as an Official Partner of Bath Rugby and help the Club develop innovative ways to transform the matchday experience using cutting-edge technology over the coming years.

Ahead of any redevelopment of The Recreation Ground, the Club is keen to draw on IPL’s experience of building market-leading customer experiences and mobile apps to build engagement with fans and enhance the experience of watching rugby in Bath.

IPL is a long-term partner of Bath Rugby, having been the main shirt sponsor for two seasons, prior to becoming an Official Partner in 2011. This extension strengthens links between the two organisations as Bath Rugby enters an exciting chapter of its history.

Nick Blofeld, Chief Executive at Bath Rugby commented: “We have enjoyed a long-standing, successful partnership with IPL for over five years now, and we’re very pleased to be continuing this for the coming season. We are constantly striving to improve the matchday experience for our supporters, and IPL are just the company to help us achieve this.”

Paul Jobbins, CEO at IPL added: “We’re delighted to be extending our partnership with Bath Rugby and are excited about the opportunities we have to help them build even stronger links with their supporters. IPL’s experience in creating award-winning business services will enable us to enhance the matchday experience for supporters by using technology in truly innovative and exceptional ways.”

Heineken Announced as Official Beer & Cider Provider for Glasgow 2014

Dutch brewery Heineken has been selected as the Official Beer & Cider Provider for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

The agreement will see Heineken join the Glasgow 2014 sponsor family and provide beer & cider options for sale to spectators at licensed bars within official Games venues. Heineken Beer and Bulmers Cider will be available through licensed bars in competition venues. 

The firm’s award winning Caledonian Brewery in Edinburgh will produce a special limited edition Commonwealth Games 2014 ale as part of increased marketing for the Games. 

Heineken has a strong record of supporting sport, medicine having undertaken a similar role at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games along with its longer term links to the UEFA Champions League and the Rugby World Cup. 

David Grevemberg, drugs Glasgow 2014 Chief Executive, said: “As a strong supporter of sport and a company with a strong base in Scotland, we are pleased to bring Heineken on board as our Official Beer & Cider Provider. We will be working with them to encourage spectators to celebrate responsibly while being part of the largest and most exciting multi-sport event in Scotland this summer.

“We want to provide Glasgow 2014 sports fans with a diverse range of food and drink options as part of their overall Games experience.”

John Gemmell, HeinekenTrading Director for Scotland and North East added: “We are delighted to be officially associated with the Games and will be working hard to help create a spectator experience second to none. We have been chosen for our significant experience in this area and for our popular brand portfolio.  

“For adult Games visitors, the opportunity to enjoy a cold beer or cider while watching world class sport, or with a meal, will add to the quality service offering and choices available at venues. Furthermore, we have a strong record in promoting moderate consumption and will be working with the Games organisers to ensure that the Games are a safe, secure and enjoyable experience for all.”

FEI Ink Jet Set Sports Sponsorship, Launch New App

The International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) today announced a six-year sponsorship deal with corporate hospitality provider Jet Set Sports.

Jet Set Sports, sale exclusive hospitality provider for Organizing Committees of the Olympic Games (OCOG) since 1984 is renowned for its premium quality and scope of corporate hospitality management services.

As the FEI’s exclusive sponsor in the hospitality sector, viagra order Jet Set Sports will offer first-class Olympic hospitality packages for the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games to FEI stakeholders, drugs from National Federations to athletes, horse owners and fans.

The agreement, which continues until 2020, will also see Jet Set Sports work with the FEI to develop hospitality programmes for key FEI events.

“We are delighted to announce Jet Set Sports as the FEI’s latest sponsor,” Lisa Lazarus, FEI Chief of Business Development & Strategy said. “As our exclusive sponsor in the hospitality sector, Jet Set Sports will offer our stakeholders a wealth of unique hospitality programmes at major international sporting events.”

Alan Dizdarevic, Co-CEO Jet Set Sports said: “Jet Set Sports provides top quality hospitality for world class sporting events. The FEI is the perfect partner to help us reach an international audience that has an interest in attending and enjoying major sports events in the luxury of premium hospitality.”

FEI Launch New App

The FEI have also launched a new free sports app on the first day of the FEI Sports Forum.

The app allows users access to the FEI’s entire sports calendar, including detailed programmes and schedules.

Gaspard Dufour, FEI IT Manager, commented: “The FEI SportApp is a must-have for those who want to follow key events, and is essential for athletes planning their campaigns and organising their lives around their busy competition schedules.”

Tata Steel Extends British Triathlon Sponsorship

Indian multinational steel-making company Tata Steel has extended its sponsorship of British Triathlon. 

The new three-year agreement will be focused on the children’s triathlon series Tata – Kids of Steel which aims to inspire young people of all abilities to get active and adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Myra Rooselaar, who heads up Tata Steel’s corporate responsibility, said: “We are very proud to extend our long-term relationship with British Triathlon as its Community Sponsor. Our continued sponsorship will give children in communities across the country the chance to have a go at a triathlon and experience how much fun sport can be.

“Seeing children complete a mini-triathlon is incredibly rewarding and inspirational, both for the kids and for our many employee volunteers, who support the events. The energy, excitement, enthusiasm and camaraderie is contagious for young and old.”

Since becoming British Triathlon’s Premier Sponsor in 2006, and Corporate Partner in 2009, Tata Steel has been instrumental in the growth and success of triathlon in Great Britain. 

Tata Steel is Europe’s second largest steel company employing about 18,000 people at sites across the UK.

Talking about the relationship, British Triathlon CEO Zara Hyde Peters OBE said: “British Triathlon is delighted to be able to announce the continuation of our longest running sponsorship. Tata Steel has been an integral part of the growth of the sport over the last eight years, with support that has flexed and adapted around the sport’s and Tata Steel’s objectives. This is a unique relationship and we look forward to continuing to work together in this extremely exciting period in the sport’s development.”

Traffic Sports to Sponsor Gold Cup & CONCACAF Champions League

Brazilian company Traffic Sports has secured the sponsorship rights to The Confederation of North, try Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) events.

The deal will mean Traffic will be the official Corporate Partnership Agency of the Gold Cup and the CONCACAF Champions League.

The multi-year renewal agreement includes rights to the next four editions of the biennial Gold Cup (2015, tadalafil 2017, decease 2019, 2021), as well as seven additional seasons of the annual CONCACAF Champions League, from the 2015/16 edition through the 2021/22 tournament. The deal also incorporates rights to all other events organized by the Confederation, such as youth tournaments, Olympic qualifiers and Futsal.

“We are very pleased to extend our relationship with Traffic Sports,” said CONCACAF President, Jeffrey Webb. “During the past year they have contributed tremendously to our mission of developing the game at all levels by aligning our properties with companies that want to become true partners of our sport. We look forward to years of successful partnership.”

Under terms of the renewed deal, Traffic Sports will continue to package and market all CONCACAF properties globally, with assets that include field of play branding, use of tournament marks, unique experiences, and hospitality, among others. Financial terms of the deal will not be made public.

“We are grateful to CONCACAF for entrusting Traffic with the continued development and growth of its corporate partnership program,” said Aaron Davidson, President of Traffic Sports USA.

“Over the first 17 months of our current agreement, we have focused on laying a new foundation for the region’s flagship tournaments, the Gold Cup and Champions League. And now after growing Gold Cup sponsorship over 50% in 2013 and validating the CONCACAF Champions League as the most important professional club tournament in the region, we are very well-positioned to exponentially grow the Confederation’s corporate partnerships over the next two World Cup cycles.”