WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., Nov. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- BMW has strengthened its partnership with the PGA TOUR as the official automotive sponsor of November's THE TOUR Championship, which will be played at the East Lake Golf Club, November 2 - 5, 2006 in Atlanta, GA. Although the sponsor of many golf tournaments around the globe, this marks the first time that BMW has sponsored a PGA TOUR event. It also serves as a precursor to its partnership with the Western Golf Association via the BMW Championship -- the third of four PGA TOUR Playoff tournaments that are part of the new FedExCup competition in 2007.

"THE TOUR Championship in Atlanta marks a natural progression for BMW and is a great example of BMW building on its golfing successes around the world" said Tom Purves, Chairman and CEO, BMW of North America. "As the automotive sponsor for the event, BMW is proud to be part of the historic changes and progressive developments in the sport."

BMW's partnership with the PGA TOUR and the WGA is part of the company's global three pillar sports marketing strategy, including partnerships with the US America's Cup sailing team, BMW Oracle Racing, and the BMW Sauber F1 Team. BMW continually aligns itself with the premier performance-driven sports and has been involved in international golf for more than 20 years. Golf and BMW go hand-in-hand, representing excellence, precision, aesthetic appeal and a cultivated lifestyle.

Full story