Bunker Mentality has just announced that they have become a clothing partner of the Turkish Airlines Open. According to my sources, they decided to take up the sponsorship, after seeing direct links at the start of the season between their sponsored player – Simon Dyson – appearing on course on TV and their internet traffic.
As part of the deal, marshals and volunteers will be wearing a CMax Technical polo and best selling Bunker Mentality cap. In addition to this selected holes will be branded as well at The Maxx Royal Belek Golf & Spa.
I think the success and the ROI will depend on who will play and how mobile-friendly will be the championship (see: early this year, during Waste Management Phoenix Open people were able to see the tournament via SnapChat OurStory feature. This was the first PGA Championship that used SnapChat). Will Rory McIlroy be able to recover? The final players’ list of the Turkish Airlines Open 2015, will be announced in the coming weeks.
I would suggest anybody who consider to sponsor a golf tournament, to broaden their thinking around marketing and consumer engagement to ensure the right mix across channels. Don’t neglect the second screen experience!
I would not recommend to use very heavy presence at any golf course to promote a brand. It can just achieve the opposite result. It can easily be a turnoff to fans.