You may never win a Sony Ericsson WTA Tour title but now you can buy one. One of the nation's most prestigious clay-court titles is up for bid.

Bausch & Lomb will end its 22-year title sponsorship streak of the Amelia Island women’s professional tennis tournament, Bausch & Lomb Championships, in April and organizers are seeking a new title sponsor for the 2009 tournament.

Bausch & Lomb has relinquished its position following recent legislation that prevents the company from using the event to entertain physicians. Bausch & Lomb is the second longest-running continued U.S. title sponsor in women’s professional tennis.

"The Bausch & Lomb Championships has a rich and vibrant history on Amelia Island," said John Arrix, tournament director. "We are in search of a long-term alliance with a new title sponsor to help ensure the success of this iconic event for many years to come."  

Octagon has selected AXIA Public Relations and Marketing as a marketing consultant to secure a title sponsor for the 2009 championships.

The title sponsorship up for grabs will require a minimum two-year contract at no less than $450,000 per year. AXIA is also the appointed agent for additional sponsorship packages.

"This tournament offers several unique features to corporate sponsors," said Jason Mudd, CEO of AXIA. "Not only is it a very intimate setting on beautiful Amelia Island ideal for entertaining, there is also significant visibility in the sport locally and nationally. A smart company could take advantage of the tournament and the resort community for conferences, retreats and other opportunities."

This year’s Bausch & Lomb championships will take place on Amelia Island Plantation April 7-13. Tournament organizers are seeking a new 2009 title sponsor and additional sponsorship opportunities are available for 2009. Interested companies should call Jason Mudd at (904) 425-6652.