Flying Kangaroo Saddles up for World Cup

Negotiations have been successfully concluded between a classic Australian sport and the national carrier, creating an important new partnership for the Ridley Polocrosse World Cup 2007.

In a statement released today, Qantas has been named the Official Airline for the prestigious international equestrian competition. The event forms part of the Queensland Events Corporation's major events portfolio and is to be held in Warwick on Queensland's Southern Downs 23:29 April 2007.

The deal concludes months of negotiations between Qantas and the event’s official tour operator, Greg Ritchie Travel. Effective 1st September 2006, the deal includes both domestic and international flight travel which is booked through the event tour operator. A rebate will be paid against airline ticket sales, but further information on the specific nature of the agreement has not been disclosed.

Commenting on the deal Ridley Polocrosse World Cup 2007 Chairman Mr Les Fraser said, "Partnership with the national carrier is a perfect fit for Polocrosse - which is one of only three sports invented in Australia.

"Obviously in terms of sponsorship opportunities, Qantas has many to choose from and we believe the heritage value of our sport was in our favour. From a commercial perspective, we understand the importance of having an official tour operator gave us the edge. Greg Ritchie Travel has an existing relationship with Qantas and has the systems in place to track ticket sales, which is what Qantas was looking for.

"For our competitors and visitors, the fact that Qantas's service routes meet our every need, both domestically and internationally, was significant." Mr Fraser added.

Current title holder Australia is one of eight nations who have qualified to compete in the 2007 Cup. The others are Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, United Kingdom, the USA and Zimbabwe. Expressions of interest in attending the Cup have been also been received from Polocrosse enthusiasts in Denmark, France, Germany and Norway.

Based on figures from the 2003 Polocrosse World Cup, international travellers are expected to exceed 500.

The Ridley Polocrosse World Cup 2007 will be held 23:29 April 2007 at Morgan Park Warwick. Eight nations will compete - see www.polocrosse.com.au/worldcup.