NEW YORK (February 15, 2017) – Outdoor Channel host, conservation activist and outspoken advocate against poaching and unlawful hunting practices, Ivan Carter, recently was named the 2016 recipient of THE OX OF OKAVANGO AWARD from the African Professional Hunters Association (A.P.H.A.). The announcement was made by the A.P.H.A.

The Ox of Okavango Award is presented annually to a member of the African Professional Hunters Association who exemplifies impeccable integrity while guiding safari hunters in pursuit of dangerous game, as well as educating the public about the importance and vital role conservation plays within
the industry.

"Ivan Carter is the epitome of professionalism and integrity through his conservation work as a television host, leading voice against illegal poaching and unlawful hunting practices and professional guide," said Outdoor Channel CEO & President, Jim Liberatore. "Anyone who has seen his show – Carter's W.A.R. – spoken with him or heard him speak on the topic of conservation knows the level of commitment he has when discussing the future protection of big game in Africa. Ivan represents everything our networks stand for and we are proud to be associated with, and to know, him."

The African Professional Hunters Association is an organization whose membership is impassioned with ensuring that African game continues to be conserved for the ultimate benefit of local people who live surrounded by it. The Association aspires to continue to help the indigenous people who benefit from the conservation practices of big game, as well as ensure the proliferation of big game in Africa and the African environment.

The A.P.H.A. was founded in 1993 by well-known professional hunters: Monsieur Gerard Pasanisi, Mr. Robin A. Hurt and Señor Tony Sanchez Arino along with 24 other founding members. The organization was founded, and remains, committed to creating a defense against rapidly increasing commercialization of safari hunting which results in inexperienced, large commercial companies tarnishing the reputation of the industry through lack of integrity and a conservative vision.

Carter's W.A.R. (Fridays at 7 p.m. ET on Outdoor Channel) is Ivan Carter's quest to save Africa by spreading his message around the world. A tireless advocate and educator, Carter is committed to telling viewers the untold story of his homeland by taking them on a weekly journey through the bushes of Africa where he confronts wildlife transgressors trying to destroy its awe-inspiring habitat. Carter's W.A.R. also enables viewers to understand the importance and duty of conservation practices, as well as portrays the constant, life-and-death struggle the people of Africa endure daily just to survive.


About the Award: The Ox of Okavango Award is a herd of elephants made of solid silver, designed by Mr. Mannix in conjunction with artist Patrick Mavros. On its base is a plaque on which names of each annual winner are inscribed. The winner will retain a silver miniature replica and receive a $5,000 prize to be used to further their good work. Carter's prize will go towards the support of his foundation – Ivan Carter Wildlife Conservation Alliance – and support of the Lwiro chimpanzee sanctuary. The ICWCA raised more than $250,000 last year with 95 cents of every dollar raised going to support Carter's conservation causes.


About Outdoor Channel: Outdoor Channel has been taking viewers across America and around the world on unparalleled adventures since 1993. Dedicated to the outdoor lifestyle and conservation, the independent cable network is a division of Outdoor Sportsman Group and provides a complete spectrum of riveting hunting, fishing, shooting and adventure entertainment. Outdoor Channel is the largest outdoor TV footprint in the country and is available in more than 50 countries internationally. Outdoor Channel can be viewed in HD and is accessible by broadcast and mobile platforms. For program times and other information, visit www.outdoorchannel.com



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