(LONDONDERRY, New Hampshire) – ECCO – the Danish footwear giant and maker of the most comfortable, technologically-advanced and fashionable golf shoes for men and women – today announces the extension of its endorsement agreements with international golf stars Thomas Bjorn and Iben Tinning.
Under terms of the multi-year agreements, both Bjorn and Tinning will wear ECCO golf shoes exclusively during all on-course activities, display the ECCO logo on the collar of their golf shirts and appear at ECCO promotional functions.
Over the course of his 11-year professional career, Bjorn, a Danish native who maintains fully exempt status on both the PGA and European PGA tours, has recorded nine international victories. Runner-up at both the 2000 and 2003 British Opens, Bjorn is currently 27th in the official world golf rankings.
Also a Danish native, Tinning’s career highlights include two international victories, more than 20 top-10 finishes and inclusion on the 2002 European Solheim Cup squad.
In addition to Bjorn and Tinning, ECCO endorsers include Aaron Baddeley (PGA Tour), Juli Inkster (LPGA Tour), Rosie Jones (LPGA Tour) and Thongchai Jaidee (Asian PGA Tour). More than 100 PGA, Champions, LPGA and European tour players regularly wear ECCO golf shoes.
“We are thrilled to continue our relationships with both Thomas and Iben,” says Per Aagren, GM of ECCO’s golf division. “As natives of Denmark and high-profile international golf figures, they have been excellent representatives of the ECCO golf brand and we look forward to strong seasons for them in 2005.”
ECCOs Spring/Summer 2005 line of classic and casual golf shoes features 10 models in 27 color combinations for men and eight models in 29 color combinations for women. Included are three completely new styles for both men (Casual Sneaker GTX, Sport Accelerator, Classic City) and women (Sport Dynasty, Sport Supreme and Classic E GTX). Prices range from $120 to $400.
From the traditional classic styles to avant-garde casual models, ECCO golf shoes are praised by Tour and everyday players for their ultra-soft, high-grade leather and extra cushion for superior shock absorption.
All ECCO golf shoes are made using processes that cannot be duplicated by any other golf-shoe manufacturer. These technological breakthroughs have distinguished ECCO for more than 40 years. In addition to superior comfort, all ECCO golf shoes provide increased stability, arch support and durability, while Gore-Tex ensures optimal water resistance and breathability.
About ECCO
Founded in 1963 by Karl Toosbuy in Denmark, ECCO Sko A/S is the seventh largest shoe manufacturer in the world and enjoys a reputation for unparalleled comfort in its dress, casual, athletic and golf footwear. With direct subsidiaries in Europe, the Far East and North America, and partners worldwide, ECCO has 9,000 employees worldwide. ECCO USA, Inc. is based in Londonderry, New Hampshire. For more information: www.eccousa.com, (800) 886-3226.
