Sunshine Matters

Patrick and his #40 Mazda RX-8 in their 'Share a Little Sunshine' attire for the Grand Prix of Miami

As you may be aware, in our ongoing efforts to promote the great state of Florida, we have created a strategic marketing partnership with Mazda.  This past weekend, during the Rolex Racing Series Grand Prix of Miami, VISIT FLORIDA and Mazda had an opportunity to showcase the ‘Share a Little Sunshine’ campaign to national and international audiences through a celebrity endorsement with Patrick Dempsey and his #40 race team. 

As you will see in the photos and video, Patrick’s #40 Mazda RX-8 is sporting a ‘Share a Little Sunshine’ bright yellow and orange paint scheme, he wore the campaign t-shirt and cap in the paddock area for interviews and public appearances, and the race announcers were given talking points so they could mention the campaign during their race coverage. 

I was even invited to serve as the Honorary Chairman of the Race – welcoming the race fans, saluting the drivers, and encouraging them all to go to ShareaLittleSunshine.org to invite someone to Florida – during the pre-race festivities at the track.  Unfortunately, my flight was cancelled so I was unable to attend the race.  However, I’m delighted to say that Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau President & CEO Bill Talbert was able to step into the role on short notice and did a fantastic job of representing the Florida tourism industry to race fans from around the world.

Through our ongoing partnership with Mazda, VISIT FLORIDA will be promoting the Sunshine State in a number of different ways, so stay posted for further updates on various other racing and auto promotions we’ll be doing in the weeks and months to come.