December 14, 2006 – La Mirada , Calif. – Makita U.S.A. , Inc., manufacturer of high quality industrial power tools and accessories, has joined Billabong and Monster Energy Drink as a sponsor of the Monster Energy Pipeline Pro presented by Billabong on the North Shore of Oahu in Hawaii , January 27 – February 19, 2007 .

“Many tradesmen are surfers, so this is a great way to reach our customer,” said Brent Withey, Makita Brand Manager. “Partnering with Billabong and Monster Energy Drink on the premier surfing event of the season is a huge opportunity.”

The Monster Energy Pro presented by Billabong is staged at Pipeline, located on the North Shore of Oahu in Hawaii . The steep, hollow wave at Pipeline is considered by most surfers the world's most famous and challenging reef break. The event, sanctioned by the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP), is one of the top World Qualifying Series (WQS) events to be staged in Hawaii , attracting athletes from all over the world. The event will be covered by national media and international surf media, including live streaming on www.billabongpro.com , and a 30 minute broadcast on Fuel TV.

The contest requires approximately three days of competition and is staged in the best available conditions during the 12-day waiting period for optimum surf conditions, January 27- February 19, 2007 . A prize purse of $75,000 is on offer, with the winner earning $10,000. Makita will also contribute prizes, including Makita Combo Kits. The kits feature select tools from Makita's extensive 35-model LXT Series featuring 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Battery Technology, a breakthrough in cordless that delivers more power, less weight and better engineering.

Makita USA

Makita USA, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of over 450 professional, industrial quality power tools and has over 5,000 industrial accessories. Makita's LXT Lithium-Ion is backed by Makita's new three-year warranty and all other Makita tools are covered by a one-year limited warranty against defects in materials or workmanship and may be serviced at any of our 25 factory service centers or by more than 1,000 authorized service centers nationwide. Makita USA, Inc's home office is located in La Mirada , California and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please contact us at 1-800-4-MAKITA (1-800-462-5482) or visit the website at makitatools.com.

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