Mazda Ramps Up Rugby Support

MOUNT WAVERLEY, Australia - December 8, 2008: Mazda Australia today announced it is getting in tight in the front row of Australian rugby union.

Mazda Australia has locked in a three-year deal as Sleeve Sponsor of the NSW Waratahs Super 14 rugby union club. Mazda has been a strong supporter of the Waratahs since 2001, and 2009 marks a new era for the partnership as Mazda steps up with recognition on the club’s jersey.

Managing Director Doug Dickson said Mazda’s decision to ramp up its support of the NSW Waratahs was an easy one to make.

“Sport is as much a part of the cultural pulse of Australia as cars, and we are privileged as one of the biggest car brands in the country to be able to assist in promoting Australian sport on the world stage.”

Dickson said top-level sporting partnerships is one way Mazda gives back to the Australian community that so warmly supports the Mazda brand and its Stylish, Insightful and Spirited cars.

“Mazda takes its corporate citizenship in Australia very seriously. We have a wide range of long-term partnerships in place, from Opera to AFL, and our ongoing support of the NSW Waratahs is fundamental to our celebration of the eclectic Australian culture.

“Sport is integral to what it means to be an Australian, and Mazda is excited to be involved.”

Dickson said Mazda has great respect for the NSW Waratahs, and the way the team conducts itself both on and off the playing field.

“The NSW Waratahs’ sportsmanship and respect for the game of rugby union makes them fantastic role models for the younger generation. The ’Tahs play hard and fair, and are exciting to watch and clearly very successful – as their performance in 2008 proved.

“They came back from adversity early in the season to make it right through to the finals, going down in a hard-fought match to the eventual champions. Let’s hope the ’Tahs can go one better in 2009!”

Mazda also sponsors NSW Waratahs’ winger Lachlan Turner who scored the team’s only two tries in the nail-biting final, which they eventually lost to the Crusaders by 20-12.

NSW Rugby Union CEO Jim L’Estrange welcomed Mazda’s decision to continue sponsorship of the Waratahs for the 2009 season.

“Mazda has been a long time and loyal supporter of Rugby at various levels within New South Wales and we welcome them onto the Waratahs jersey as sleeve sponsor for the first time in 2009.”

“Mazda vehicles are instantly associated with style, class and innovation, so it’s a fantastic fit to have them involved with the Waratahs.”