Smith Optics Signs On as the Official and Exclusive Eyewear of the Monster Energy Supercross Championship

AURORA, Ill. – A worldwide leader in technically advanced and authentically styled eyewear, Smith Optics Inc., based in Ketchum, Idaho, will be partnering with Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, for the 2011 season as the official and exclusive eyewear of the championship.

The multi-year agreement marks Smith’s first partnership with Monster Energy Supercross. Since 1965, Smith has earned respect with a reputation for innovation and unwavering quality in its approach to eyewear. A frontrunner in providing athletes unparalleled quality, Smith has backs such motocross and supercross athletes as Travis Pastrana and two-time women’s motocross champion Ashley Fiolek.

"We’re really excited, and feel fortunate to have this opportunity," said Mark Phares, Smith Optics motorsports general manager. "Supercross is a huge stage, and provides a great audience for our broad product offering – it will surely help to catapult our brand awareness to a whole new level. We plan to be on site at every round with a large, user friendly display area to have fun and interact with the fans with giveaways, promotions, and product displays featuring our sunglass range as well as our all new 2011 moto goggle collection."

Throughout the 2011 Monster Energy Supercross season, Smith will receive traditional online and in-stadium branding as well as space in the pit party to promote their product line. Smith will be showcasing their new line of extensive moto goggles that feature the popular Roll Offs system, fog-free vision, and advanced lens and frame technologies. Smith will also be promoting their line of sunglasses equipped with leading edge lens and frame technologies for the everyday consumer.

"Bringing Smith on board for the 2011 Monster Energy Supercross season is an exciting partnership with an American-made goggle brand that has supported motorcycle racing since the beginning," said Dave Prater, director of supercross. "Supercross is an immense marketing platform for Smith to foster their exceptional products. We look forward to their on-track presence and support throughout the 2011 season."

The 2011 Monster Energy Supercross season and Smith Sport Optics sponsorship initiatives kick-off Saturday, January 8 with the opening race of the season from Angel Stadium in Anaheim, Calif.

For more information on the Monster Energy® AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, please log on to www.SupercrossOnline.com. For all media requests, please contact Denny Hartwig dhartwig@feldinc.com or 630-566-6305.