DHL Express sponsors professional angler Takumi Ito in the 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series

DHL will support Ito as he competes in the world’s top bass fishing tournament

DHL Express announced its sponsorship of Japanese professional angler Takumi Ito as he competes in the Bassmaster Elite Series, the world's top tournament for professional bass fishing. DHL will be an official sponsor of Ito throughout the Bassmaster Elite season, providing the support he needs to effectively compete in the tournament. Various equipment, including Ito’s vehicle, bass boat and gear, will be emblazoned with the DHL logo.

Takumi Ito moved his base to the United States in 2019. In 2021, just two years after his first entry, he made his first victory at the Bassmaster Elite Series in the competition’s final round. In addition to the elite series, Ito has competed twice in the Bassmaster Classic, widely known as the “Super Bowl of Bass Fishing,” and will compete again this 2023 season.

“We’re excited to team up with Ito as he challenges the top global contenders in these tournaments. Inspired by his passion and a can-do spirit, Ito shares the same attributes that are part of our winning formula at DHL,” said Mike Parra, CEO Americas and Global Head of Sponsorships. “DHL will continue to support Ito in his mission to connect fans in Japan and the U.S., inspiring them through his performance in these professional fishing tournaments.”

“I am honoured to receive the support from a global company like DHL. It has been my dream since childhood to participate in this competition in the United States, the home of the professional bass fishing sport,” says Takumi as he prepares for the first tournament in February. “I will do my best this 2023 season, aiming to win one Bassmaster Elite Series event and the Bassmaster Classic, as well as increase my annual ranking from last year.”

"We decided to sponsor Ito because he’s a top player, growing beyond Japan to an international stage,” says Tony Khan, President and Representative Director of DHL Express Japan. “We are truly delighted to support such motivated Japanese talent in his quest for the best performance.”