CIBC Becomes Official Banking Partner of Canadian Paralympic Committee

CIBC has become the Official Banking Partner of the Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC).

As one of CPC’s premier partners and its exclusive banking partner, CIBC is pledging its support to Paralympians in next year’s Paralympic Winter Games in Sochi, the 2015 Parapan American Games in Toronto and the 2016 Paralympic Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro and beyond.

“This a very exciting day for Paralympic sport in Canada with the announcement of this partnership,” said Gaétan Tardif, President of the Canadian Paralympic Committee. “CIBC’s support will be a great boost to Canadian athletes with a disability, from playground to podium.”

This new four-year sponsorship deal broadens CIBC’s support of Canada’s high performance amateur athletes and reflects the bank’s passion for sports as a way of inspiring and instilling valuable life-long skills to Canada’s youth.

“As part of our continued commitment to sports and community development, CIBC is thrilled to support the Canadian Paralympic Committee and their dedication to developing champions who inspire us all,” said Laura Dottori-Attanasio, Senior Executive Vice-President and Chief Risk Officer, CIBC. “We look forward to cheering for these talented Canadian athletes and celebrating their success as they pursue their dreams of representing our country on the world stage.”

CIBC is also the Lead Partner of the TORONTO 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games, and as part of its sponsorship, established the CIBC Team Next program in July 2013 to assist 67 up-and-coming athletes in their dream of reaching the podium.

“This partnership is a huge vote of confidence from CIBC,” said Stephanie Dixon, a multiple Paralympic gold medalist in swimming and a CIBC Team Next mentor, who is training in hopes of making the Canadian para-Nordic relay team for the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games. “This will further inspire youth and other Canadians with a disability to be leaders and achieve their goals.”

“I applaud CIBC for sponsoring the Canadian Paralympic Committee,” said the Hon. Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport). “CIBC is taking a leadership role at engaging people in communities across Canada through its sponsorships. I am pleased to see this new partnership with CPC, which will raise awareness of Paralympic sport, support our athletes with disabilities and encourage all Canadians to celebrate their accomplishments.”

Emirates Unveiled as Official Airline of Warrington Wolves

English Super League team Warrington Wolves have announced a new four-year sponsorship deal with Emirates as Official Airline and Main Sponsor.

As part of the partnership, Emirates will benefit from significant branding on the home and away shirts as well as within the stadium and on the Warrington Wolves website. The deal is considered the biggest in the club’s history.

The announcement was revealed today by Steven Broomhead, Chairman of Warrington Wolves, and Julie Bailey, Emirates District Sales Manager for the North West of England and the Midlands, during a press conference held at The Halliwell Jones Stadium in Warrington.

Warrington Wolves’ CEO Andy Gatcliffe said: “The club has had an association with Emirates for a number of years and greatly appreciates the partnership support. Securing this sponsorship takes us into further exciting times at the club. We pride ourselves on being at the forefront of both the sport of Rugby League and the world of business so to join the likes of sporting giants AC Milan, Arsenal and Formula One shows the desire the club has to reach its full potential and spread the word of both Warrington Wolves and our game.

“We feel privileged to have secured such a high-profile sponsorship and will be proud to carry the name Emirates on our shirts next season and beyond.”

Julie Bailey, Emirates District Sales Manager for the North West of England and the Midlands said: “The partnership is a natural extension of our existing rugby sponsorship portfolio, and reflects the core values of our purpose to enrich the experiences of rugby fans in the UK. “

“Few sports connect with communities as emphatically as rugby and Warrington Wolves is no exception. Through this sponsorship, we want to pay tribute to the amazing support of the people of Warrington to this team and to the wider north-west region. The deal demonstrates our continued support for the region, showcasing Manchester as a key regional hub for Emirates, offering three daily flights to Dubai, including the flagship A380, onwards to over 130 destinations worldwide, meaning people do not have to travel to London to go wherever they want in the world.”

Danica Patrick to Endorse REVO Eyewear

NASCAR driver Danica Patrick has agreed a partnership with Sequential Brands Group, Inc. to endorse their performance brand REVO.

Patrick is one of the most recognizable athletes in the world and drives the No. 10 GoDaddy Chevrolet in the prestigious NASCAR Sprint Cup Series – the premier form of motorsports in North America.

Danica will be wearing REVO both on and off the track and will be featured in upcoming brand campaigns. She will be involved in the product development process and is lending her extensive experience with eyewear to add her unique design aesthetic for the 2014 collection. In addition, she will be featured in the Spring 2014 advertising and marketing campaign, and featured throughout REVO’s social media platforms.

“REVO is an incredible brand known for its innovative technology and crystal clear lenses,” stated Danica Patrick. “I am honored to be an ambassador for such a renowned brand, and I’m eager to celebrate this new partnership with Sequential by ringing the opening bell of NASDAQ together with them today.”

Yehuda Shmidman, CEO of Sequential, stated, “We are thrilled to celebrate our recent listing on NASDAQ by ringing the opening bell with our friend and partner Danica Patrick. Today marks a major milestone in Sequential’s evolution into a leading global Brand Management organization.”

Safeway Named Official Grocery Partner of Phoenix International Raceway

Supermarket chain Safeway have announced a new partnership with Phoenix International Raceway to operate an on-site grocery store in the camping area at the race track beginning this fall with PIR’s AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend Nov. 8-10.

Safeway will be the official grocery partner of Phoenix International Raceway offering snacks and campground essentials. 

“We are delighted to partner with Safeway to provide our fans with a first-class grocery store at Phoenix International Raceway during the AdvoCare 500 race weekend, ampoule ” PIR President Bryan R. Sperber said. “Our fans know that Safeway’s in-store experience is second to none, asthma and we are excited to provide that same level of service at our AdvoCare 500 race weekend and for years to come.”

The store will look and feel just like one of Safeway’s 115 stores throughout Arizona. The 17, cure 200-square foot store will open its doors on Monday, Nov. 4 at Noon and will be open every day throughout race weekend. The store will also be open on Monday, Nov. 11 for campers to pick up any last-minute items before they return home.

Race fans will be able to find all of their camping and cooking needs in the store, from charcoal and firewood to food and groceries, as well as ice, beer, snacks and other campground favorites. The store will also serve as the unofficial social hub of the campground as race fans start each day with coffee, donuts, breakfast burritos and the morning paper.

“Safeway is proud to partner with Phoenix International Raceway and welcomes the thousands of NASCAR fans expected throughout race week,” said Nancy Keane, Public Affairs Director for Safeway’s Phoenix Division. “Safeway’s on-site grocery store promises to provide PIR’s dedicated race fans exemplary service, warm hospitality and an inviting shopping experience.”

FusionHealth to Treat Sleep Disorders at Atlanta Falcons

National Football League (NFL) franchise Atlanta Falcons has announced a partnership with FusionHealth, shop the leading provider of innovative cloud-based solutions.

Utilizing prevention-based strategies, hospital FusionHealth will provide a comprehensive sleep management program to identify, treat and manage sleep disorders and sleep problems for the players and associates of the Atlanta Falcons.

“In a highly competitive business, we pride ourselves on seeking out the best technologies,” said Atlanta Falcons General Manager Thomas Dimitroff. “FusionHealth provides that type of smart, leading-edge technology that our players and associates can use to improve their overall wellness, as well as their performance on and off the field.”

“We’ve been helping large employers all over the country deal with their burgeoning healthcare costs by implementing innovative, successful sleep medicine programs for years”, stated Sigurjon Kristjansson, co-founder and CEO of FusionHealth. “Our innovative, cloud-based technology enables clients like the Atlanta Falcons as well as other non-sports related high performance teams to integrate preventive medicine solutions for improved personal wellness and enhanced performance. We look forward to seeing the impact that healthy sleep has on high level performers like the Atlanta Falcons.”

IRWIN Tools Drops Naming Rights of Erebus Motorsport in V8 Supercars

IRWIN Tools have ended their naming rights sponsorship of the #4 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG from Erebus Motorsport V8 beyond the 2013 V8 Supercar Championship Series after seven yaers in the Championship.

IRWIN’s Head of Marketing, arthritis Tom Veale, discount made the announcement today.

“The V8 Supercar Championship Series has played an instrumental role in the strong growth of the IRWIN Tools brand in Australia and New Zealand in the past seven years,” said Veale.

“Our original relationship with Jason Bright’s Britek operation, Stone Brothers Racing and more recently Erebus Motorsport V8 has delivered significant value to our brand and customers.

“While V8 Supercars has been highly successful in growing the IRWIN brand, it is time to redirect our efforts towards meeting other brand and business objectives.

“We thought it appropriate to make this announcement at this part of the season to provide Erebus with the opportunity to go to market and find a replacement partner for the #4 AMG E63.

“We have created valuable business relationships during our V8 Supercars involvement, and, just as importantly, many friendships which will endure beyond the day our logos come off the car.

“We would like to thank everyone who has been involved in this program especially Lee Holdsworth, Ross and Jimmy Stone, and Betty Klimenko plus everyone on both the sport and commercial sides of the business who have gone above and beyond to help us achieve our goals.

“We look forward to the improving development of the Erebus Motorsport operation as we close our chapter of involvement during the next two months and then cheering from the sidelines as the team goes to the next level and beyond in coming seasons.”

The IRWIN Racing #4 Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 from Erebus Motorport driven by Holdsworth and Craig Baird recently finished in fifth place in the PIRTEK Enduro Cup, which included fourth place results at Sandown and fifth in the second leg of the Gold Coast 600. Holdsworth will campaign the car at Phillip Island in November and then bring down the chequered flag on IRWIN’s involvement at Homebush in Sydney on December 6-8.

Team Alstare Ends Ducati Partnership

Alstare, which competes in World Superbikes, has ended its deal with Ducati mid-way through a two-year contract with the Italian manufacturer. 

The partnership between the Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer and Team Alstare was expected to continue in 2014, however, the current economic climate and subsequent withdrawal of support by one of Alstare’s main partners, has dictated that the Belgian team must downsize its future plans.

In a meeting held at the Ducati factory in Borgo Panigale, Bologna, Francis Batta and the Ducati management decided the best course of action would be an early termination of the agreement before the start of the 2014 season. 

“I am extremely sorry that an operation that had started on such a positive note had to be concluded before its time without achieving the results we were aiming for,” said Ernesto Marinelli, Ducati SBK Project Manager. “This was a very difficult year in terms of sports performance, but I am convinced that it nevertheless made us both grow and lay solid foundations for our future development and improvement. In these months together, I experienced the constant professionalism and expertise of everyone at Team Alstare, and I hope to be able to work with them again in the future. My special thanks, both in my personal capacity and on behalf of the whole company, go to Francis for the effort he has put in this year – as he always has throughout his career.” 

“I am very sad because this challenge, which began last November, was very important for me as a fresh start after missing one year,” said Francis Batta Owner of Team Alstare. “Working with Ducati was incredibly thrilling, although unfortunately, we failed to achieve the results we had set ourselves. The 2013 racing season has been incredibly hard for us, and being unable to start from a solid position in 2014, I would rather not take risks that might compromise our ability to complete the season. I would like to thank Ducati for trusting me and I wish them all the success that they deserve.” 

Ducati has confirmed that it will take part in the Superbike World Championship next season, with 2014 riders and racing plans to be announced in the coming days.

DHL Signs on as Official Logistics Partner of Rugby World Cup 2015

Global logistics specialist DHL have announced today they will be the worldwide partner of the Rugby World Cup 2015 in England.

This is second Rugby World Cup in a row DHL has partnered with following their deal with New Zealand 2011.

As Official Logistics Partner, health DHL will support England Rugby 2015 with all freight logistics for the 20 participating teams to England and on to the training bases and 13 match venues the length and breadth of the host nation. The equipment to be transported will include an estimated 1, symptoms 400 balls, 200 kicking tees and 200 tackle bags.

As part of the deal DHL will transport the iconic Webb Ellis Cup from 2011 winners New Zealand to the IRB in Dublin for the official trophy handover ceremony.

Aboard one of the globally-recognised DHL cargo aircraft, the Cup will visit each of the previous Rugby World Cup winning nations from October 26 en route to the international federation’s headquarters in Dublin, stopping off in Australia, South Africa and England before 2011 winning captain and All Black legend Richie McCaw hands the Webb Ellis Cup over to RWCL and IRB Chairman Bernard Lapasset on November 18.

Lapasset said: “We are delighted to be renewing our successful partnership with DHL. The reappointment of a globally renowned brand and a world leader in the logistics industry further underscores Rugby World Cup 2015’s considerable global prestige.”

“We look forward to collaborating with DHL to further the promotion of Rugby around the world as the sporting community looks forward to what promises to be an exceptional England 2015 tournament that will engage and inspire new fans and participants the length and breadth of the host nation and around the world.”

Ken Allen, DHL Express CEO, said: “We are very excited to be joining forces once again with Rugby World Cup Limited to deliver Rugby World Cup 2015. DHL sees tremendous synergies between a sport that is built on the character-building values of teamwork, passion and integrity and a will to win and the values that we strive to bring to life every day for our customers.”

“We are actively involved in Rugby the world over, both through flagship global partnerships such as this one and through our participation in local clubs and community initiatives. We will be working hard behind the scenes to support and match the world-class performance that fans will surely be treated to on the pitch.”

Debbie Jevans, England Rugby 2015 CEO, added: “Rugby is at the heart of all our planning and we are committed to providing the 20 teams with the best possible environment in which to train and play. Efficient and reliable logistics support is therefore integral to the success of the tournament. We are pleased that DHL, global leaders in the logistics industry with a proven track record at Rugby World Cup and established links in the game, will continue their long standing partnership with Rugby World Cup Limited. We look forward to working with DHL to deliver an exceptional tournament.”

The announcement follows the appointment of Heineken, Land Rover and Société Générale as Rugby World Cup 2015 Worldwide Partners, Gilbert as Official Ball Supplier, Canterbury of New Zealand as Official Sportswear Supplier and Clifford Chance as Official Law Firm.

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Emirates Extends Sponsorship of DP World Tour Championship

Airline operator Emirates has extended its European Tour partnership by sponsoring the DP World Tour Championship, Dubai for the fourth year.

The tournament, which will be staged from 14 to17 November, will take place on the Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai. 

Emirates has been the Official Airline of the $8 million tournament since 2010 and is now in the second year of a three-year partnership with the season-ending finale of The Race to Dubai, which will once again feature the top 60 players on The European Tour.

“Emirates is proud of our commitment to golf with not only The European Tour but with professional tours across the globe. We are excited about the DP World Tour Championship and the crowning of the winner of The Race to Dubai,” said Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline.

“It’s been an exciting year around the world of golf. Our association with events on The European Tour globally is a testament to the success of the long-standing partnership we have with the Tour. We fly to many destinations where the Tour stages events, showcasing further synergies between the two brands.”

“Since its inception in 2009, the DP World Tour Championship has been the season-ending finale of The Race to Dubai and has enjoyed the support of major supporters with none more prominent than Emirates, which has a presence across The European Tour footprint,” said Nick Tarratt, Director European Tour International, Dubai Office.

“We are now in our fourth consecutive year as event partners and we thank them for the continued and valuable support of both the DP World Tour Championship and The European Tour.”

As part of its sponsorship of the event, Emirates will fly in many of the players and international golf fans as well as a European Tour Productions team set to broadcast the tournament to over 430 million homes worldwide

SportYes to Sponsor Livorno

Online sports betting brand and subsidiary of Admiral Interactive SportYes have agreed to sponsor Serie A Italian football club Livorno for the 2013-14 season.

As part of the deal, unhealthy SportYes will enjoy various branding opportunities at the club’s Armando Picchi stadium, diagnosis including LED pitch-side advertising boards.

The deal, which is the company’s first sport sponsorship venture, was agreed through the Italian sports marketing agency GSPORT.

Livorno gained promotion to the Italian Serie A top flight last season and is currently 14th in the league after eight games.

“Admiral is always looking for exciting new challenges; to support Livorno after its promotion to Serie A is an opportunity to celebrate the entry of SportYes into the world of sports sponsorship, while also increasing the visibility of other brands such as CasinoYes, PokerYes, BingoYes and SlotYes,” Admiral Interactive’s director, Federico Fogli, said.