Boost for shinty as Marine Harvest extend sponsorship
THE Camanachd Association has announced that Marine Harvest has agreed to a new six-figure, threeyear sponsorship of the game – the largest single sponsorship investment in the sport to date.
The new agreement extends the partnership between Marine Harvest and the Camanachd Association to 33 years, running until the end of the 2020 season, and represents one of Scotland’s longest running sport sponsorships.
The company will increase its investment and profile in shinty by continuing as title sponsor of the Premier League – Marine Harvest Premiership, National Division and North/South area leagues.
The agreement also sees Marine Harvest continue their support for women’s and youth shinty, the Scotland senior national squad, the annual shinty/hurling international match and the annual shinty awards night.
Making the announcement, Camanachd Association president Jim Barr said: ‘This is great news for shinty and represents the largest single sponsorship investment in the sport to date.
‘The commitment shown by Marine Harvest over many years, and today extended for a further three, adds tremendous value to the continued promotion and development of shinty. Shinty is an important part of Scotland’s sporting and cultural heritage and remains a key part of community life in many areas across the country.
‘The Camanachd Association recognises shinty as Scotland’s most iconic team sport and the whole shinty community will be delighted that such a successful company continues to show such faith in our great game.
‘Marine Harvest have been exceptional partners and have always made it clear their contribution is intended to give something back to the communities in which they operate. Consequently, they have been very flexible and always supportive of what is best for shinty.’
Ben Hadfield, managing director of Marine Harvest (Scotland) Ltd, said: ‘Having supported shinty for 30 years we are very pleased to announce our continuing support for the game for another three years at all levels.
‘It has been very rewarding to see how the game has developed and grown, particularly with women’s shinty, and the work and commitment that we’re seeing invested in youth shinty, and, of course, we are delighted to continue providing the annual Marine Harvest National Shinty Awards which recognise the hard work and dedication of players, coaches and others in the sport.
‘As we have said many times before, we are proud to be able to play our part in supporting the game.”