Snap-On Tools Company Strengthens Stars of Karting Relationship with Five-Year Sponsorship Extension
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Indianapolis - August 26, 2005 - Strengthening its dedication to the Stars of Karting racing series, Snap-on Tools Company today announced the signing of an additional five-year title sponsorship of the series. With the support of Snap-on Tools Company and its President Alan Biland, Stars of Karting presented by the IRL plans to remain at the forefront of excitement and developing the newest stars in all of motorsports.
"Congratulations to the Stars of Karting series on a great four years of growth and excitement," said Biland. "Snap-on has enjoyed our association with the series and we're proud to announce our renewed commitment to it. Continuing the sponsorship was a natural progression into a more in-depth relationship with the sport of karting, its drivers and fan base."
"Snap-on has been an amazing partner to us from the very beginning and instrumental in helping us become the premier North American Karting championship," said Brian Herta, founder and co-owner of the Stars of Karting series.
Snap-on and its tools have been at the forefront of the motorsports industry for more than 70 years and the company has diversified interests in nearly all types of racing, including a large presence in the Indy Racing League, Stars' presenting sponsor. The Snap-on Stars of Karting presented by the IRL represents Snap-on's only full-sponsorship venture in any current series.
Bobby Rahal, co-owner of the Stars of Karting series, described the extended commitment as historic and an integral part of presenting world-class karting events around North America.
"I personally want to thank Al (Biland) for his commitment to those young drivers who look to the Snap-on Stars of Karting to provide them with the competitive environment needed to develop their craft," said Rahal.
Karting has developed over the years from a hobbyist pastime to an internationally recognized form of competitive racing. Stars of Karting and the entire sport have helped launch many careers of leading open-wheeled professional drivers and drivers of other popular racing types, including IndyCar Series driver Brian Herta, who is also a co-owner of the Stars of Karting series.
"Kart racing has quickly developed into a North American and global enthusiast favorite over the years," said Carl Johanson, Snap-on's motorsports marketing manager. "As we continue our Snap-on Stars of Karting partnership for five more years, we hope to help maintain Stars' place as the premier karting event."
As seen with the corporate interest in the sport, karting has grown from the grassroots racing of the '50s into a consumer-friendly and extremely competitive form of racing. From New Zealand to Europe, South America to Canada, kart racing has a presence in almost every developed nation.
"I know I speak for all our drivers when I thank Snap-on for their significant involvement and commitment to the sport we love. This extension, along with the long-term commitment from the IRL, will ensure that we will achieve our growth potential and continue to be the place where the very best karters compete," said Herta.
Although the specifics of the sponsorship were not discussed, the previous relationship allowed Snap-on branding at all events and on all vehicles, as well as primary choice for sponsorships and advertising of Speed TV broadcasts. National event winners will also receive Snap-on tools as a primary award.
Paul Zalud, co-owner and president of the series said, "The fact that Snap-on is continuing to support us is an accomplishment for Stars, for our drivers and for the industry. I am very proud of our relationship with Snap-on, and the friendships with Snap-on management and all the dealers that show up to our events."
The five-year extension has the potential to further the series' awareness, as well as allow Snap-on to reach a captive audience for developing lasting relationships with key stakeholders and customers.
Snap-on Stars of Karting presented by the Indy Racing League is based out of Seattle, Washington, sanctioned by the World Karting Association (WKA) and owned and operated by 1986 Indianapolis 500 champion and IRL IndyCar Series team owner Bobby Rahal, IndyCar Series driver Bryan Herta and veteran karting promoter Paul Zalud. www.starsofkarting.com, www.worldkarting.com.
Snap-on Tools Company, LLC is a subsidiary of Snap-on Incorporated, a leading global developer, manufacturer and marketer of tool and equipment solutions for professional tool users. Product lines include hand and power tools, diagnostics and shop equipment, tool storage products, diagnostics software and other solutions for the transportation service, industrial, government, education, agricultural, and other commercial applications, including construction and electrical. Products are sold through its franchised dealer van, company-direct sales and distributor channels, as well as over the Internet at snapon.com. Founded in 1920, Snap-on is a $2 billion-plus, S&P 500 company headquartered in Kenosha, Wis., and employs approximately 11,500 people worldwide.
Formed in 1996 by Tony George, Stars' presenting sponsor Indy Racing League provides the ultimate in wheel-to-wheel racing excitement through the IndyCar Series and Menards Infiniti Pro Series. The 2005 season marks the 10th year of competition for the IndyCar Series, the pinnacle of open-wheel racing in America. The 17-race schedule, featuring 14 ovals, two road courses and a temporary street circuit, consists of the most events in season history. The Menards Infiniti Pro Series, an essential stepping-stone for drivers and teams striving to reach the IndyCar Series, will feature a series-high 14 races in 2005, including three events on road courses and one street course. www.indyracing.com.
