Some might remember the 1981 cinematic gem Cannonball Run starring Burt Reynolds which was based on the original 1971 Cannonball Run race across the United States (though hopefully those who saw the film’s second sequel with John Candy suffer from severe memory loss). This September, a real-life Cannonball Run, which has enjoyed particularly strong success in Europe the last three years, kicks off in Montreal for a Canadian version of the event. In an attempt to re-create the wackiness of the film classic, racers are encouraged to wear costumes to help raise money for charity. The event will be filmed professionally so the highlights of the race can be featured on the 2005 DVD to be released worldwide.
With the event just being announced, sponsorship is still available, though event organizers have already been in talks with Vodafone and Red Bull for some of the premium rights. Some of the available sponsorships include everything from decals, to banners, to advertising on the DVD. Cannonball is particularly interested in pursuing supplier agreements for both parts and cars in exchange for heavy promotion.
