Best Western International Continues Partnership with NASCAR Driver Micahel Waltrip
Official Hotel of NASCAR Joins Bill Davis Racing as Associate Sponsor in 2006
PHOENIX, AZ, October 3, 2005. Best Western International, the Official Hotel of NASCAR, announced that it will serve as an associate sponsor on the 2006 Dodge Charger driven by NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series fan favorite Michael Waltrip through a partnership with Bill Davis Racing (BDR).
"We are thrilled to be teaming with Bill Davis Racing," said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing for Best Western. "We look forward to an exciting and successful 2006 race season." Bill Davis recently announced his plans for re-establishing BDR as a multi-car team through a partnership with Waltrip.
Added Dowling, "Michael is a strong, proven partner for Best Western - a perfect fit for the brand and the core values it represents. In the last two years, he has embraced our company and its 2,400 member hotels across North America, helping to establish Best Western as the home to both NASCAR and its fans. We are proud to continue our relationship with Michael as he begins this exciting new chapter in his career."
In January 2004, Best Western entered into a multi-year agreement as the Official Hotel of NASCAR. During the 2004 and 2005 seasons, the company has also served as an associate sponsor of Waltrip and the Dale Earnhardt, Inc.-owned No. 15 NAPA Chevrolet in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series. In addition, the hotel chain has partnered with Michael Waltrip Racing for the last two years, serving as primary sponsor of Waltrip's Busch Series #99 Chevrolet for the 2004 Bashas' Supermarkets 200 at Phoenix International Raceway; and the 2005 Zippo 200 at Watkins Glen International.
"Best Western is a model for other sponsors to follow coming into our sport," Waltrip explained. "They have a presence in NASCAR's top two series, they have phenomenal advertising campaigns used in every media facet, and they are the Official Hotel of NASCAR. I am fortunate to be surrounded by sponsors that understand NASCAR and its many opportunities."
As a company spokesperson, Waltrip has helped build several of Best Western's exclusive NASCAR-related initiatives, including its popular Speed Rewards loyalty program. As members, guests can earn valuable points which are redeemable for NASCAR-licensed merchandise such as jackets, caps - and race-related items including Proscan headsets and Richard Petty Driving Experience gift certificates. Members can also earn free room nights anywhere in the world, as well as dining, entertainment and shopping certificates.
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