Zippo renews Watkins Glen contract

Watkins Glen International and Zippo Manufacturing Company announced today that Zippo has renewed the title sponsorship of the NASCAR Busch Series race until 2010. The race will remain as the Zippo 200.

“We have been involved with Watkins Glen for over a decade and are extremely excited to continue our partnership during their annual NASCAR event weekend and the Busch Series race," said Greg Booth, President and CEO of Zippo Manufacturing Co. “Not only does this partnership make sense for us and Watkins Glen, but it supports our Zippo Motorsports marketing initiative."

Zippo Motorsports launched a “HOT" new collectable line of over 45 lighters in 2005 featuring the NASCAR license and drivers Dale Earnhardt, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Jeff Gordon, Kevin Harvick and Michael Waltrip. Zippo’s involvement with Watkins Glen began in 1993 with the sponsorship of the annual fall vintage event, known as the Zippo U.S. Vintage Grand Prix. The Zippo 200 will be held this Saturday, August 11, at approximately 3:30 PM and will air live on ESPN2.

“We are fortunate to have developed such a strong partnership with Zippo and are very proud to have them with us for the next three years," said Watkins Glen International President Craig Rust. “Having the involvement of such a powerful brand like Zippo, joining our NEXTEL Cup Series sponsor Centurion Boats, continues to speak to the value of NASCAR at Watkins Glen International."