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Australia's first medallist of the Sydney 2000
Olympic Games, Michellie Jones, announced today (21 December 2000) that Kia is
the new naming rights partner of the prestigious Australian Formula 1 Triathlon
Series that commences in January.
The Opera House, scene of her Olympic silver
medal triumph, provided a fitting backdrop for the launch of triathlon's
premier event of 2001. Jones arrived at the harbourside launch in style at
North Sydney driving a new Kia Sportage.
The world number one Triathlete
said she was looking forward to returning to racing in Australia in the Kia
Formula 1 Series.
"This is without doubt the most
demanding, yet enjoyable series in the world and it is great to have Kia on
board as our partner. The F1 Series was an integral part of my preparation for
Sydney 2000," said Jones.
"I am looking forward to racing
Loretta Harrop, Nicole Hackett and Emma Carney plus all the internationals in
this season's series. The men's series features Olympic gold medallist Simon
Whitfield up against all the Aussie guys who will be keen to kick his butt - so
itµs shaping up as the toughest and most exciting F1 series ever," said
Jones.
2001 marks the eighth year of the F1 Series and it has grown to be
the most spectator friendly and dynamic triathlon series in the world. The
action is extremely intense due to the short, looped race courses, like Formula
One car racing, with the race formats specifically designed to provide stunning
spectator entertainment.
Kia Automotive Australia's Managing Director,
Ric Hull, said the company was excited about its first sporting sponsorship in
Australia.
"Formula One Triathlon is fast
becoming one of Australia's most popular summer sports. Its growth in
popularity over the past five years has been phenomenal and proves that
sport-loving Aussies can be tempted from their traditional diet of cricket and
football."
The F1 continues its relationship with Network
Ten who will once again broadcast the series.
The dates and venues of the 2001 KIA Formula 1
Series are...
Round 1 - January 7,
Geelong, VIC
Round 2 - February 3, Manly, NSW
Round 3 - February 25, Gold Coast, QLD
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