In a major coup for Golf Victoria, Oates have extended their naming rights sponsorship of the Oates Victorian Open for a further two years on top of the original three year deal, taking the partnership through till 2018.
Oates CEO, David Birch made the announcement during the Pro-Am this week at Thirteenth Beach Golf Links, stating the decision was something his company had been considering given the growth of the tournament and the State Government and City of Greater Geelong’s commitment through till 2018.
“The impressive growth and success of this event since our original signing has made the decision to extend our partnership an easy one to make,” said Birch.
“The Oates team remain impressed by the tremendous support, and value, to Oates and our brand by the boards and management of Golf Victoria and Thirteenth Beach Golf Links.
“We are sure with this continued partnership and the new state funding, the Oates Vic Open will absolutely grow in stature around the world and our brand along with it.”
Oates became the naming rights partner of the Victorian Open for the start of the 2014 tournament and have been instrumental in the event’s success.
Simon Brookhouse, Golf Victoria CEO welcomed the extension, stating it was a great reflection of the impact the event has had since adopting the new men’s and women’s combined format.
“This is tremendous news for Golf Victoria and the Oates Vic Open. David [Birch] and his team have been a delight to work with in this partnership. To have such a wonderful partner in Oates has helped us achieve the success we have enjoyed with this event,” Brookhouse said.
“By extending the agreement through till 2018 to match up with the State Government and City of Greater Geelong’s commitments makes sense and helps us secure a strong future for the event.
“Oates are an integral part of what we do with the Victorian Open. David in particular is our event’s biggest advocate and his enthusiasm and humility has helped us attract even more corporate partners .We look forward to working with the team from Oates for another three Oates Vic Opens following this year’s.”
Over the past 48 hours, the Oates Vic Open has enjoyed worldwide coverage thanks to an extraordinary hole-in-one albatross on the par 4 15th Beach course at the Pro-Am on Wednesday. The incredible shot that bounced out of a bunker has been streamed all over the world including making ESPN’s award winning show Sportscenter and its Top 10 plays.
The Oates Vic Open continues this weekend at Thirteenth Beach Golf Links with both men and women competing on the Beach course throughout Saturday and Sunday.
Tickets are $5 per day for adults and kids are free.