Far Hills, N.J.– The United States Golf Association (USGA) announced today a multi-year extension and expansion of its long relationship with Rolex, the world’s pre-eminent maker of timepieces and a worldwide supporter of golf and the USGA.
 |
As part of the arrangement, Rolex will become an official partner of the USGA. The company will enhance its investment in USGA digital media properties, print publications and championship timekeeping, while continuing to build on existing activities, including increased financial support for the production and distribution of the Rules of Golf.
“I can’t think of a company that is more globally and passionately associated with golf,” said Mike Davis, the USGA’s executive director. “Rolex support permeates the core of golf, beyond championships and players, to the Rules, history and etiquette. They appreciate the USGA’s leadership role in the game and we are thrilled to have their renowned brand as part of our corporate family.”
“To become an official partner of the USGA today is a proud step for Rolex. The integrity of the game, its timeless appeal and respect for the Rules of Golf are shared values for our organizations,” said Gian Riccardo Marini, chief executive officer of Rolex SA.
Rolex has long been associated with golf’s biggest events and names. Currently, the Swiss watchmaker is the official timekeeper at numerous international golf competitions and is associated with many of the world’s leading golf organizations, including the USGA, The R&A, PGA Tour, European Tour, LPGA Tour, and American Junior Golf Association.
Rolex has been a longtime partner of both the USGA and many players associated with the organization. Over the past 44 years, Rolex has sponsored USGA champions, ambassadors and honorees, including Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Tom Watson, Retief Goosen, Phil Mickelson, Tiger Woods, Annika Sorenstam and Lorena Ochoa.
The USGA was one of the first golf organizations to partner with Rolex, which has presented the U.S. Open Annual book since 1985. Rolex has supported other USGA publications through the years, most notably the Rules of Golf. In 2012, the company is helping to make available for the first time complimentary copies of the Rules of Golf book. Individuals may order the publication by visiting www.usga.org, the official website of the Association. More than 2 million copies of the Rules of Golf will eventually be distributed with the support of Rolex.
Rolex has also helped the USGA in many of its non-championship missions. In addition to supporting the USGA Museum, Rolex has helped to guide millions of everyday golfers as a publishing partner for the Rules of Golf book and as the sponsor of the “Rule of the Day” on usga.org. Most golfers will never compete in a USGA championship, but anyone who ever has picked up a club can benefit from the wide dissemination of the Rules of Golf, made possible by Rolex.
About Rolex
Rolex is one of the world’s foremost watchmakers, with an unrivaled reputation for expert craftsmanship. With headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, Rolex is recognized for revolutionary innovations dating back to the first waterproof watch, the Oyster, in 1926 and the first self-winding watch in 1931.
The Rolex association with golf began in 1967 when the company presented Arnold Palmer with a gold Oyster Perpetual to honor his achievements. Since then, Rolex has expanded its global presence in golf. The company’s successful sponsorship strategies and initiatives have created partnerships with some of the world’s top athletes, sporting events, and cultural institutions around the world. Integrity, precision and the skillful pursuit of excellence make Rolex a perfect partner.
For more information, visit www.rolex.com.