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Mark Webber Challenge Takes a Breather in 2009

Press Release. Photo Getty Images / 10.03.2009

Mark Webber today announced that there would not be a 2009 Challenge following the four highly successful events hosted by the Australian Formula One driver in Tasmania.

The 2008 Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge saw the conclusion of some major sponsorship contracts, making it a logical time to “take a breather” from the event. Despite the continuing commitment of the State of Tasmania to the event for the next 12 months, the timing was right to review the Challenge in light of the more difficult economic times.

Speaking from Spain where he is currently testing with Red Bull Racing ahead of this month’s Australian Grand Prix, Mark said he was extremely proud of how the Challenge had evolved since the first event was held in 2003.

The Mark Webber Challenge is considered by many in the adventure racing and multisport world the “most premium’’ event in terms of the level of facilities and support the event afforded competitors. The Challenge is now well known as a global adventure race brand and has enjoyed solid sponsorship support and growing competitor numbers year on year. The international recognition of the Challenge, aided by Mark’s profile and work as an ambassador for the event and Tasmania, resulted in more than AUD$10 million of media value delivered from the 2008 event to its naming rights partner, the Federal Group (Pure Tasmania brand) as well as to the State of Tasmania (through the discoverTasmania brand).

“The ever growing number of people who have seen the Challenge television program in different parts of the world or have read stories about the event and this amazing place called ‘Tasmania’ is really staggering, ” said Mark.

“It’s great to have played a role in taking Tasmania to the world, as it has so many idyllic features as well as being an awesome playground for an adventure race”.

Mark added that he remains personally committed to outdoor adventure sports as a key part of his ongoing physical and mental preparation for the rigours of Formula One.

Mark said, “The Challenge team remains open to considering events beyond 2009, given the established model that has been created by the Mark Webber Challenge in Tasmania. We would certainly look to Tasmania again in this consideration given the long and mutually beneficial relationship we have built up over the last four events.”