South African Tourism Reveals Adventure Ambassador

NEW YORK, July 14 /PRNewswire/ -- After an intense two month search for the US's next great adventurer, South African Tourism has today unveiled the face of its Adventure campaign – Ben Lewis, a 42 year old from Olympia, Washington, who will join six others from around the world on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure odyssey to South Africa. 

Since May this year, South African Tourism, in conjunction with National Geographic Channel, has been looking for outdoor-types from across the US to give one lucky winner the chance to win a seven day trip of a lifetime to South Africa, following an action-packed itinerary including activities such as trekking, surfing, wildlife tracking, canoeing, quad biking, bush walking, safari, bungee jumping, paragliding, diving and hot air ballooning.

"I am thrilled that National Geographic Channel and South African Tourism have selected me as the US Ambassador for 'Adventurers Wanted.' I look forward to South Africa's beauty, culture and excitement, and sharing those adventures with my friends, my family and my country," said Ben.

The competition has helped to highlight some of the more active pursuits that are available in South Africa to travelers looking for anything from gentle walking or cycling to pushing themselves to the limits with some of the most challenging adventures in the World. 

Ben, and the six other shortlisted finalists, titled the "tribe," faced a judging panel made up of representatives from South African Tourism and the National Geographic Channel editorial and production teams to make sure the process was fair and equitable.

All entrants to the search were asked to upload a short paragraph and photo to a dedicated website on why they think they should have been chosen for the trip, demonstrating a thirst for adventure and a true desire to visit South Africa.

Ben will have the opportunity to share his experiences via multi-media platforms, including video diaries and blog updates on the website, during and after his trip.

"Ben is the consummate adventurer and we are excited to have him experience all that South Africa has to offer.  There is no doubt that his spirit, sense of adventure and ability to communicate his experiences will make him the ideal Adventure Ambassador for South Africa in the USA," says Sthu Zungu, US Country Manager for South African Tourism.

Along with a National Geographic Channel camera crew, the tribe will be going to South Africa later this year following an action-packed itinerary including activities from safari to bungee jumping.

To find out more about Ben and the rest of the 2010 Tribe please visit www.adventuresouthafrica.net/us/adventurer_found.

South African Tourism is the national tourism agency responsible for the marketing of South Africa as a preferred tourist destination. It is headed up by Chief Executive Officer Thandiwe Sylvia January-McLean and Roshene Singh as Chief Marketing Officer and acting Chief Operating Officer.

Website www.southafrica.net  

SOURCE South African Tourism