Panthers reduce Ironman sponsorship

Panthers has been forced to withdraw as major sponsors of the Port Macquarie-based Ironman Australia Triathlon.

Financial pressures have seen the club with no option but to pull back on spending, as they battle the current economic climate.

The primary supporter for the last three years, the entertainment group has no option but to downgrade their commitment to the prestigious event, despite planning to continue their sponsorship arrangement.

Panthers CEO Glenn Matthews says the Panthers group has to cut spending, as it joins clubs all over NSW in their fight to keep their doors open.

Panthers will remain on-board the event, taking up a smaller sponsorship package.

Glenn, an Ironman Australia Triathlon Legend, who has completed the event ten times, is bitterly disappointed at the decision.

“I have been a triathlete for 16 years and I understand the importance of this event to the sport as a whole, so it pains me to have to make this decision, but we have no alternative if we are to continue trading in this bleak period clubs all over the state are finding themselves in.

“The State Government’s poker machine tax made a significant dent in our profit, and while we fully support the anti-smoking legislation, it has also cost us in terms of revenue.

“High interest rates and petrol prices have proven to be the icing on the cake, reducing consumer spending, and as a result, the club industry is suffering.

“The long and short of it is we simply don’t have the money to spend on large-scale sponsorship at the moment.”

Event organiser, the International Management Group, is fully supportive and understanding of Panthers decision.

Director of Athletics and Fitness Dallas O’Brien says they appreciate Panthers support over the past three years and look forward to continuing this relationship in whichever form is has to take.

“We have really enjoyed the association with Panthers,” says Dallas. “Our organizations are a natural fit and I look forward to working with them in the future.”

For more information, please contact Glenn Matthews on (02) 4720 5647.