Regions Charity Classic

 
 
12/20/05-Regions Financial Corporation to Become Title Sponsor of the Champions Tour Event in Birmingham-Hoover, Alabama
 
January 22, 2006

Birmingham, Ala.- Regions Financial Corporation announces a three-year agreement to be the title sponsor for the annual Champions Tour event played in Birmingham-Hoover, Alabama. The tournament, formerly known as the Bruno's Memorial Classic, will become the Regions Charity Classic presented by Bruno's Supermarkets beginning 2006.

"This tournament began with the purpose of giving back to the community, and I am proud that Regions will help continue the tournament's tradition and focus of community service," said Jackson W. Moore, Regions President and Cheif Executive Officer. "Our customers, associates and the community will all benefit fromt his sponsorship, and it is a great opportunityfor people to learn more about Regions' committment to providing superior products and financial services."

"I am also excited to be part of an event that Sports Illustrated has ranked twice as being the Number One event on the Champions Tour," added Moore. "The Regions Charity Classic is the only Champions Tour event held in the state of Alabama, and it gives us a unique opportunity to see some outstanding golf professionals in action."

"Bruno's customers and teammates are proud of the long heritage of giving that this tournament represents," said Dean Cohagan, BI-LO/Bruno's President and Chief Executive Officer. "As you know, we are a new company in 2005 and it is a top priority for us to continue supporting the charities of Alabama. The Regions Charity Classic presented by Bruno's is an example of that commitment."

"We ar thrilled to begin a new partnership with Regions and align ourselves with another highly successful Birmingham-based company. Through their involvement, we are able to continue the great tradition of this annual charitable event," said Gene Hallman, Executive Director of the Regions Charity Classic. "In addition, we appreciate the continued support of Bruno's Supermarkets, which have done so much to make this tournament a great success."

"We welcome Regions to the Champions Tour family of title sponsors," said Rick George Champions Tour President. "For 14 years, Birmingham has been one of premier stops on the Champions Tour. With the commitment and support of Regions, the tournament will continue to be one of Alabama's most popluar sporting events, not to mention one of its most charitable endeavors."

The Regions Charity Classic presented by Bruno's Supermarkets will be held May 1-7 at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Ross Bridge in Hoover, Ala. A field of 78 golf professionals will be competing for a $1.6 million purse, an increase of $100,000 from 2005. Ronnie Bruno will continue his leadership role as the foundation's president. Since its inception, the tournament foundation has raised more than $8.3 million for various charities. For ticket or general information call (205) 969-9229.