Captain Morgan Hosts 'Welcome to the Captain's World' Party in Las Vegas Honoring 'First Mate' Marisa Miller

Pair Announce First Mate Fund Benefiting Non-Profit Organizations Committed to Social Responsibility

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Oct 11, 2010, 02:54 ET

NEW YORK, Oct. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- After roaming the high seas alone for more than 375 years, legendary party host Captain Morgan threw a bash for the ages Saturday night in Las Vegas to officially welcome supermodel Marisa Miller as his first-ever "First Mate."

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101011/NY79956 )

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20101011/NY79956 )

At just after midnight on 10/10/10, hundreds in attendance watched as Miller debuted the world premiere of "Welcome to the Captain's World," a video introducing the new Marisa Miller-inspired Captain Morgan marketing campaign. Set to launch nationwide this week, the campaign chronicles Miller's new responsibilities as "First Mate," including what it takes to protect the Captain's world famous spiced rum – attitude and some serious sword-handling skills.

Culminating the evening's festivities, the Captain and his "First Mate" announced the formation of the First Mate Fund, a non-profit fund established by the Captain Morgan brand to award grants to several charitable organizations that focus on responsible drinking awareness and education.

"Celebrating in Las Vegas with the Captain was an experience unlike any other," said Miller. "It was great to share in the excitement of the world premiere of the 'Welcome to the Captain's World' video with so many Captain-faithful in Vegas! I'm looking forward to helping launch the First Mate Fund, which will further our efforts to make sure everyone follows the Captain's orders and drinks responsibly!"

"I've long admired Marisa as she's risen through the ranks – from her legendary work as a supermodel to her various philanthropic pursuits," said Captain Morgan. "Her style and confidence are what attracted me at first, but when I saw her bold, edgy side, I knew she would make the perfect 'First Mate'."

Starting this week, the "First Mate" campaign will be visible through print and online advertising, billboards and bus wraps as well as in various social responsibility communications and event appearances. Additional information about the First Mate Fund and its beneficiaries will be announced in the coming weeks.

About Diageo

Diageo (Dee-AH-Gee-O) is the world's leading premium drinks business with an outstanding collection of beverage alcohol brands across spirits, wines, and beer categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Guinness, Red Stripe, Smirnoff, J&B, Baileys, Cuervo, Tanqueray, Captain Morgan, Crown Royal, Beaulieu Vineyard and Sterling Vineyards wines.

Diageo is a global company, trading in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE). For more information about Diageo, its people, brands, and performance, visit us at http://www.diageo.com/.

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