Triton Boats was recently sold to Project Boat Holdings, which also owns Ranger and Stratos. The two largest boat competitors were thus merged under a single roof, which led to at least some uncertainly as to how the merger would affect future tournament underwriting and sponsorship.
Good news emerged this week for American Bass Anglers (ABA), which has enjoyed a decade-long relationship with Triton. The league announced that Triton renewed as a sponsor of the Bassmaster Weekend Series (operated by ABA), The American Fishing Tour, The American 150 Series, The American Couples Series and the Annual Military Team Bass Tournament.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Triton president Earl Bentz noted: "Triton remains as committed to American Bass Anglers today as we were in 2000 when the partnership began. ABA has continued to deliver a complete sponsor program that provides the right elements and connects all the way to sales. We look forward to working closely with the ABA team and its members for 2011 and beyond."
ABA president Morris Sheehan added: "When I purchased the organization in 2000 one of my first calls was to Earl Bentz. He committed then for Triton Boats to be the exclusive boat of the American Bass Anglers. Triton's support has been instrumental in the growth of the sport for the weekend angler. Earl was also very instrumental in the creation of what is now the Bassmaster Weekend Series. This support alone created a new path to the Bassmaster Classic for the weekend bass angler. We're proud for the continuing support of such a great company."
Also this week, ABA announced its 2011 Bassmaster Weekend Series schedules. The Series will run 20 divisions next year – Minnesota/Wisconsin was dropped. Priority registration begins Oct. 25. To view the full schedule, click here.
