HARTFORD, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
The Hartford skyline is set to glow with a vibrant red beacon tomorrow night as the iconic Travelers Tower illuminates to mark the official commencement of the very first Travelers Championship. This highly anticipated PGA TOUR event signifies a new chapter for professional golf in Connecticut, with Travelers stepping in as the title sponsor.
Andy Bessette, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer for Travelers, expressed his enthusiasm for the tournament. “Monday represents the dawn of a new era for Connecticut’s esteemed PGA TOUR event,” he stated. “Our dedicated team has tirelessly curated an exceptional roster of players for TPC River Highlands, and we eagerly anticipate a week brimming with exciting festivities. Importantly, all proceeds generated from the Travelers Championship will directly benefit the Greater Hartford Jaycees and The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, reinforcing our commitment to the community.”
Travelers’ commitment to this event extends beyond sponsorship. In April 2006, the company pledged its support as title sponsor for the next four years, sparking a wave of enhancements aimed at elevating the experience for fans, players, and their families alike. This year’s tournament boasts significant upgrades, including the initiation of construction for a state-of-the-art practice facility, a boosted prize purse exceeding $6 million with a substantial $1.08 million awarded to the champion, refined corporate hospitality facilities, and the introduction of The Pavilion, a novel hospitality experience designed for fans.
The Travelers Championship’s core mission includes giving back. All proceeds are dedicated to two noteworthy organizations: the Greater Hartford Jaycees, a dynamic group of young professionals dedicated to community service in the Greater Hartford region, and The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, founded by the legendary Paul Newman, providing enriching camp experiences for children grappling with serious illnesses and their families.
The decision to illuminate the Travelers Tower in red is a significant gesture, reserved for rare and special occasions. Prior instances of altering the Tower’s lights underscore its symbolic importance. Following the devastating terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the Travelers Tower shone in red, white, and blue as a symbol of national unity and remembrance. In May 2004, the tower was bathed in blue and white to celebrate the remarkable dual NCAA national championship victories of the University of Connecticut men’s and women’s basketball teams.
Golf enthusiasts and the public are invited to attend the inaugural Travelers Championship, taking place from June 18 – 24, 2007, at the TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, Conn. Tickets and further details can be found at www.travelerschampionship.com.
About Travelers
Travelers stands as a leading insurance provider, keenly aware of the dynamic nature of life and business. Their commitment to agents and policyholders is reflected in their delivery of adaptable insurance solutions that evolve in tandem with the ever-changing landscape of life and commerce. To learn more about Travelers and their approach to staying “in-synch,” please visit www.travelers.com.
The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE: TRV), a Fortune 100 company, is a prominent property casualty insurer. Operating primarily through independent agents and brokers, Travelers offers a comprehensive suite of coverage options to its global clientele, spanning both personal and commercial sectors. Their diverse portfolio includes automobile, homeowners, construction, small business, oil and gas, ocean marine, bond and financial products, global technology, and public sector services. In 2006, Travelers reported revenues of $25.09 billion and total assets of $113.76 billion, supported by a workforce of approximately 33,000 employees.
Source: The Travelers Companies, Inc.
Contact:
The Travelers Companies, Inc.
Matt Bordonaro, 860-277-7014
Cell: 860-202-3034
or
Jennifer Wislocki, 860-277-7458
Cell: 860-391-2605
