Merc Backs Autism Crusader
www.bassfanarmy.com - April 17, 2008

Mercury Marine announced that it's partnering with Massachusetts angler Eli Delany in support of his national
autism awareness campaign.

Autism is the fastest growing disability in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention autism prevalence report. Over the past 25 years, the incidence of autism has risen dramatically, now affecting one in every 150 children.

Delany, a regional angler in New England, is on a personal crusade to raise awareness about autism. He is spearheading the campaign in support of his son Luke, 7, who was diagnosed with autism shortly after he turned 2. He believes an educated public will significantly advance the cause, resulting in earlier diagnoses, more effective treatments and increased research dollars targeted at finding a cure for autism.

His autism awareness-wrapped 21-foot Stroker boat, powered by a Mercury 250 XS engine, won Bass & Walleye Boats magazine's 2007 Hottest Rig of the Year award. This year, he intends to host a weekly radio podcast, spearhead a tour of sport shows with his Autism Awareness promotional booth, and distribute brochures, posters, information and resources about autism.

Autism awareness materials will be distributed throughout the Bassmaster Elite Series and Eastern and Central Open tournament trails and will be available at Mercury Marine dealerships.