ST. LOUIS (Nov. 25, 2009) - The sun will have rotated on its axis more
than three times, nearly 1.4 million babies will have been born
worldwide and most Americans will have almost worked a full week by
the time 16 Rock Band aficionados will have played Rock Band for 90
hours straight in their quest to become the Guinness World Record-
Holder (Gamer's Edition) for the Longest Relay Rock Band Concert - all
while raising money for Child's Play charity.
The event, known as The Rock-A-Thon powered by Energizer® Advanced
Lithium, began on Friday, Nov. 27 at 12:05 a.m., when the first set of
Rock Band™ players take the stage at the Meridian in Houston, Texas
for the 90-hour marathon. Players include several professional gamers
such as Robert Paz, a.k.a Prodigy X, Ciji "StaySlayer" Thorton and
internet sensation and Guitar Hero II World Series of Video Games
Champion Freddie Wong.
"We are excited to have some of the most renowned video gamers playing
alongside us as we try to set the Guinness World Record for Longest
Relay Rock Band concert," said Paul Slawinski, President and Co-
Founder of The Rock-A-Thon. "We hope people come out to watch the
action and to help raise money for Child's Play."
For every fan that attends the epic 90-hour charity concert,
Energizer, The Rock-A-Thon's presenting sponsor, will donate $1 to
Child's Play, up to $5,000. Child's Play is a community-based charity
grown and nurtured from the game culture and industry. The charity
donates toys, video games, books and cash for sick kids in children's
hospitals across North America.
"Now more than ever, charities are in need assistance, so we are
thrilled to power The Rock-A-Thon and help raise money for Child's
Play," said Jim Olsen, Vice President of Marketing, North America for
Energizer. "Our Energizer® Advanced Lithium batteries will allow for
hours and hours of uninterrupted game play, helping The Rock-A-Thon
rockers raise money and reach their record."
Energizer® Advanced Lithium batteries provide 20 additional hours* of
continuous playing time in wireless gaming accessories. In addition to
offering long-lasting power, Energizer® Advanced Lithium has a shelf
life of 10 years and weighs 33 percent less than an ordinary alkaline
battery. The entire 90-hour performance will be streamed live at
www.therockathon.com.
Going for the Record
The Rock-A-Thon members will be setting the first world record for the
Longest Relay Rock Band concert. The event will kick-off with four of
the 16 Rock-A-Thon members playing a seven-song set. After the opening
set, the group will play in 50-song shifts of four people - one
vocalist, one guitarist, one bassist, one drummer - plus two
additional people for The Beatles™: Rock Band™ songs (which require
three-part harmony in addition to the instruments). All songs will be
played on the "expert setting." After the full 90 hours is complete,
The Rock-A-Thon members will have played more than 1,050 songs.
The event will be recorded and documented for submission to Twin
Galaxies, the World's official scorekeepers of video gaming records,
according to Guinness World Records.
In addition to the donation made by Energizer, The Rock-A-Thon will be
selling official "The Rock-A-Thon" t-shirts for $25 and raffle tickets
for prizes like a year's worth of Energizer® Advanced Lithium
batteries. All proceeds will benefit Child's Play. The event is free
and open to the public.
* Compared to Energizer® MAX®. Results vary by play and/or usage
patterns.
About Energizer
Energizer Holdings, Inc. [NYSE: ENR], www.energizer.com, headquartered
in St. Louis, Missouri, is one of the world's largest manufacturers of
primary batteries, battery-powered devices and flashlights. Energizer,
a global leader in the dynamic business of providing portable power
geared toward the new digital age, offers a full portfolio of products
including the Energizer® MAX® premium alkaline brand; Energizer®
Ultimate Lithium; Energizer® Advanced Lithium and Energizer®
Rechargeable® batteries and chargers.
The Energizer product line also includes specialty batteries for
hearing aids and medical devices, health and fitness devices, as well
as for keyless remote entry systems, watches and other uses. Through
its flashlight and lighting products unit, Energizer helps bring
consumer insight and innovation to these important household devices.
Energizer continues its role as a technology leader for on-the-go
lifestyles with its Energizer® Energi To Go® line of portable battery-
driven power packs for cell phones.
About The Rock-A-Thon
The Rock-A-Thon brings together 16 Rock Band aficionados from around
the country for a nonstop four-day charity event to benefit Child's
Play, which raises money for books, toys and games at children's
hospitals around the world. For more information on The Rock-A-Thon or
to make a donation, visit www.therockathon.com