Chevrolet and IGFA announce partnership

General Motors division becomes platinum sponsor of remier global fishing conservation organization

DANIA BEACH, Fla. – (January 5, 2005) – The International Game Fish Association today announced Chevrolet as the official automotive group of the world’s oldest and largest fishing conservation and record keeping organization. 

            As a platinum sponsor, Chevrolet will join the IGFA and its strong affiliation of corporate sponsors creating sound programs and alliances for conservation, preservation and environmental education efforts.    

            “Chevrolet’s support for the sport of recreational fishing over the past several decades has been unparalleled,” said Rob Kramer, IGFA President. “This new partnership will provide the IGFA the opportunity to take its conservation and education programs to the next level.”

            Chevrolet officials said the partnership with the IGFA is a great match up.

            “In the United States alone there are over 45 million anglers, one out of five Americans, and a third of them women,” said Tim Hudgens, Chevrolet Regional Divisional Marketing Manager. “That’s more people involved in fishing than in golf, tennis and Alpine skiing combined. With the IGFA’s worldwide commitment to the sport of fishing and promoting the enjoyment, appreciation and effective stewardship of fish and aquatic habitats, this is a natural fit for Chevrolet.

            “Our support of the IGFA is a new way to communicate with many more people who love to fish and share the enjoyment of the outdoors," added Hudgens. “As a supporting sponsor we will assist the IGFA’s efforts in creating effective programs and initiatives to protect fisheries and natural resources here and abroad.”  

Featured at annual IGFA Auction & Banquet fundraiser

            Chevrolet’s involvement with the IGFA was immediate.  A Chevrolet Tahoe 4x4 SUV is the featured item in the IGFA’s 21st Annual International Auction and Banquet, a January 28th  fundraiser at The Breakers in Palm Beach, Fla.  Bidding for it and hundreds of other items is underway worldwide on-line at the IGFA website: www.igfa.org.

            Chevrolet products will be featured at the IGFA Museum and Hall of Fame plus at events, tournaments and interactive displays throughout the year. 

Founded in 1939 the International Game Fish Association is a not for profit organization committed to the conservation of game fish and promoting responsible, ethical angling practices, through science, education, rule making and record keeping. The IGFA maintains worldwide game fish records in freshwater, saltwater, fly fishing and junior angler categories.

            IGFA members are located in over 125 countries. The IGFA welcomes visitors to its 60,000-square-foot interactive Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum in Dania Beach, Florida.

            For more information, contact the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum, 300 Gulf Stream Way, Dania Beach, Florida 33004; phone 954-927-2628, fax: 954-924-4299,  e-mail: HQ@igfa.org, website: www.igfa.org.