"Jack Nicklaus and the Nicklaus family have an image and reputation for quality and credibility," said Sterling Power Boats President Russell Erickson, who is attending the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. "Their passion for golf is equaled by their passion for the outdoors, particularly boating and fishing. This is a perfect fit for our company as we prepare to make our next leap in the evolution of our boats and our business."

Longtime and avid boaters, the Nicklaus family began researching boats earlier this year with an interest in becoming involved with a manufacturer. The search led them to Sterling, and the formation of an ownership interest and marketing role for the Nicklaus family.

"I first began boating and fishing with my father when I was a boy, and it has become a lifelong passion I have enjoyed for many years and now enjoy with my sons and grandchildren," said Jack Nicklaus, who once held an Australian record with his catch of a 15-foot-6, 1,358-pound black marlin.

"My credibility is very important to me, and boats and fishing are perhaps one of my greatest interests today. We have met with Russ numerous times, did our due diligence with the company, and repeatedly tested the Sterling 38.

"This is a high-performance boat that the toughest critics will like, and one our families will certainly enjoy for boating and fishing."

Gary Nicklaus not only followed in his father's footsteps by playing golf professionally on the PGA Tour, but his passion for boating and his skill for fishing rival his father's.

"Our family has two common interests and that is golf and boats," Gary Nicklaus said. "We will be hands-on with our interest in Sterling, as we look to build the company and become actively involved in new boat development, features, technology and performance. The attention to detail and the custom approach to the business will serve as a solid foundation to future success."

Founded in 2001, Sterling Power Boats is headquartered in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., and produces custom boats primarily for the sport-fishing market. World famous naval architect Michael Peters designed the new 38, and it has surpassed all performance expectations. The three outboard-engine boat, features an 11-foot wide beam, an 80-square-foot cockpit, along with a 72-gallon above-deck live well, and two 7-foot-long below-deck fish boxes. The console has 6 foot, 4 inches of headroom with a head, sink, and hand-held shower. Also, below the floor, a queen berth makes overnight trips possible with optional air conditioning.

On the performance side, the Sterling 38 is impressive to the seasoned boater. With triple 225 Mercury Optimax engines, the boat tops out at 61 mph with half fuel and four people on board. Running at 4000 rpm, the Sterling cruises at 40 mph, burning only 28 gallons per hour with this engine setup. The boat will run at 54 mph with a twin-engine setup.

For more information on Sterling, visit www.sterlingpowerboats.net.