BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – The CSU Bakersfield Athletics Department is pleased to announce the addition of two brand new Mercedes Sprinter Vans to its fleet of vehicles by way of a continued partnership with Mercedes-Benz of Bakersfield.

Transportation is a normal part of every student-athletes' week and is vitally important to the Roadrunners, who travel far and wide to compete. The `Runners announced a partnership with Orange Belt Stages last year for the release of the all-new, CSUB-wrapped 'Runner Bus', but not all of the athletics teams need a full-sized bus. These new Mercedes Sprinter Vans will help CSUB's smaller teams travel in style and comfort to their contests.

"At Mercedes-Benz of Bakersfield we feel CSUB is one of the best assets in our community and are proud to assist with their journey in Division I athletics," said Damon Culbertson, President/GM of Sangera Automotive Group. "We know that the student-athletes will travel safely, in style, and be well-rested and ready to compete. Mercedes-Benz of Bakersfield looks forward to continuing our long-standing relationship with CSUB well into the future."

Along with these new `Runner Vans, the `Runner Bus, and the `Runner Car launched last year as well, CSUB's fleet is beginning to grow with Blue and Gold on the highway and on the streets of Bakersfield on a regular basis. These mobile advertisements further CSUB Athletics' initiative to "Paint the Town Blue and Gold", a process started two years ago by Director of Athletics Ziggy Siegfried to get the community behind the `Runners.

"The Student-Athlete Experience at CSU Bakersfield is something that we put a strong focus on," Siegfried said. "Every year we survey our student-athletes and one of the common items that comes up is their experience not being satisfactory with our old vans. Our new Branded Mercedes Sprinter Vans will significantly enhance the experience of our student-athletes and allow them a comfortable place to travel and also study while on the road."

Siegfried continued to express his gratitude to its faithful partner: "I feel very fortunate that we have such a strong partnership with Mercedes-Benz of Bakersfield. They continue to help our department, our university, and the community. A special thank you to Damon Culbertson for his commitment to CSU Bakersfield."

Keep your eyes peeled for the all-new `Runner Vans joining the rest of the fleet on the roads, or, stop by for a game and see them in person.

~GoRunners.com~