In a major show of support for professional surfing in California, Jeep® brand has signed on as presenting sponsor of the 2006 Macy's California Trifecta Surf Series as well as the presenting sponsor of the Newport Pro and the O'Neill Cold Water Classic, it was announced today by Action Sports Group (ASG) president, Don Meek.

"This is an exciting and encouraging development for American pro surfing," said Meek. "Jeep is making it possible for us to expand opportunities for World Qualifying Series (WQS) surfers who are chasing their dreams of making the World Championship Tour (WCT), while ensuring that fans get to see their favorite surfers more often. We're stoked to have Jeep on board!"

Formed in 2005, the Macy's CA Trifecta Surf Series is part of a three-year plan to strengthen surfing in America, uniting the Body Glove Surfbout presented by Adio, the Newport Pro presented by Jeep, and the O'Neill Cold Water Classic presented by Jeep under one banner. The Trifecta offers a $33,333 prize purse to the surfer who takes first place in three California WQS events. Dustin Cuizon (HAW), winner of the Body Glove Surfbout, is in the top position to take home the Macy's California Trifecta Surf Series title. Should he not take the win in all three events, the Trifecta also awards an overall points-winner bonus of $10,000, a second-place bonus of $3,500 and a third-place bonus of $1,500.

"The O'Neill Cold Water Classic was such a great event last year, we decided to take the next step and support ASG and the entire Macy's CA Trifecta Series," said Jay Kuhnie, Director – Jeep Communications. "The athletes who participate in this sport understand the meaning of freedom, adventure, mastery and authenticity, the guiding principles of the Jeep brand. We are proud to be a part of the movement to strengthen professional surfing in America."

The Jeep brand first partnered with ASG last fall when it became the presenting sponsor of the O'Neill Cold Water Classic. As part of its involvement with the prestigious surf event, Jeep featured the event on NBC's "Jeep World of Adventure Sports" program. The Jeep series features an array of adrenalin- inspired feats and adventurous sporting events from around the world. Anchored events are complemented by behind-the-scenes features on athletes and the world of action-adventure sports.

For more information on the Macy's Trifecta Surf Series visit www.catrifecta06.asglive.com. Visit www.surfermag.com/events/oakleyjr06 for the most up-to-date Oakley Pro Junior news.