Following its recent tie-up with Subaru, MESP Inc has now announced a multi-year partnership with Longo Toyota to co-sponsor the Nautica Malibu Triathlon, held annually in September in Malibu, California, and the Day at the Beach Triathlon, held annually in October in Hermosa Beach, California.
Longo Toyota, a Penske Motor Group company and ‘the largest and number one Toyota retailer in the world’, will be the Official Automobile Partner of both races.
This September will mark the 25th annual Nautica Malibu Triathlon and the fifth year that the event has partnered with Children’s Hospital Los Angeles as the official charity partner. Fundraising initiatives from the event are specifically geared towards paediatric cancer research and have raised over US$3.5 million for the hospital since 2007.
For the past several years Longo Toyota has competed in the Corporate Challenge, an aspect of the race in which the largest corporations in Los Angeles compete both on and off of the course to raise the most for the hospital and compete for the fastest time.
In 2010, Longo Toyota fielded a team of 70 employees and raised over US$26,000 for the cause. This year, Longo is expected to have an even larger group of participants. “
It’s been a pleasure working with Longo Toyota and the Penske Motor Group as a Corporate Challenge team,” said Michael Epstein, President of MESP Inc. “We are excited to extend our partnership and welcome them as an official event sponsor.”
As a triathlete and previous participant himself, Greg Penske, CEO/President of Penske Motor Group said, “We are proud to support the Nautica Malibu and Day at the Beach Triathlons.
“Both races provide an exhilarating experience for everyone, while promoting team spirit and camaraderie for participants. The fact that our involvement could help improve a child’s life makes this an even more meaningful partnership.”
The Day at the Beach Triathlon is rich in history as well – celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2011. This annual event is held in Hermosa Beach, California and primarily draws local athletes from Los Angeles County and Orange County to participate.
“Longo Toyota has been a staple in the Southern California community since 1967 offering the highest quality cars and service to thousands of local residence. The audience for the Day at the Beach Triathlon mirrors the Longo Toyota market and the partnership will unsurprisingly help both organisations’ mission,” added MESP’s Epstein.
