Shortly after the US military's practice of sponsoring professional sports and teams was put to a vote in the United States Congress, the Army National Guard has announced it will continue to support Hendrick Motorsports driver Dale Earnhardt Jr.
The National Guard began its relationship with Hendrick Motorsports in 2007 and, under terms of the renegotiated deal, the reserve military force will serve as the primary sponsor on Earnhardt Jr.'s number 88 car for 20 race throughout the 2013 Nascar Sprint Cup Series season.
Though financial terms were not released, the National Guard's commitment to Earnhardt Jr. in 2013 is estimated to be worth roughly US$20 million.National Guard citizen soldiers represent the more than 3,200 communities across the United States in which they live, work and serve their state and the nation, said Army National Guard marketing branch chief Michael Wegner, marketing branch chief. What Nascar gives us is a national marketing platform that also can be leveraged at that local level, touching recruiters, potential recruits and influencers. With our all-volunteer military and rigorous enlistment standards, it plays a key role in increasing the awareness of what the Guard does and the many career opportunities and benefits it offers.
Hendrick Motorsports owner Rick Hendrick added, Its an honour to be associated with the National Guard and its citizen soldiers. Like many of the worlds most innovative marketers and leading brands, the Guard sees the opportunities that our sport presents, and they have built a strong effort around it. As we go into 2013 together, well continue to focus on the performance of the program both on and off the racetrack.
Earnhardt Jr. said, "Working with the Guard has been incredible. On a weekly basis, were interacting with people considering a life-changing decision or who are already serving our country. Their sacrifices are difficult to comprehend, and we feel a lot of pride representing them and seeing first-hand how passionate they are about Nascar and our team.
Source: SportsPro
