IRWIN Searches for NASCAR's "Best Deck in Racing"

CHARLOTTE, N.C., September 5, 2002 -- Gentlemen, start your power tools.  IRWIN, makers of power tool accessories like MARATHON PLUS saw blades and TURBOMAX drill bits, is partnering with Performance Racing Network to host the IRWIN "Best Deck in Racing" promotion, a fan outreach effort targeting the most serious NASCAR fans - infield campers.  

During the weekend of October 11 - 13, IRWIN will host a fan viewing deck contest in the infield campgrounds of Lowe's Motor Speedway during the UAW-GM Quality 500 and award prizes for fans' most creative or unique viewing decks.  Additionally, IRWIN will provide contestants with banners, flags and other giveaway items to display at their campsites.  

"When it comes to being a spectator, NASCAR fans, especially infield campers, make every effort to go that extra mile," said Rand Ruland, vice president of marketing.  "Just like the tools it takes to build them, viewing decks are an expression of each race fan's personality and pride.  With the 'Best Deck in Racing' contest, IRWIN is proud to recognize the hard work and dedicated effort it takes to build these unique and creative structures."  

The "Best Deck in Racing" contest winner will receive $1,000 worth of hand tools and power tool accessories from IRWIN and other American Tool Companies Inc. brands, including VISE-GRIP®, QUICK-GRIP®, STRAIT-LINE® and BernzOmatic®.  Second and third prize winners will take home $500 and $250 worth of hand tools and power tool accessories respectively.

"This is a unique opportunity for fans to really showcase their creativity and do-it-yourself know-how," said Doug Rice, vice president and general manager for PRN.  "Our relationship with IRWIN has allowed us to come up with this great contest that is sure to get everyone's motors running."  

IRWIN also partners with Performance Racing Network to sponsor the weekly nationally syndicated radio show, "Fast Talk with Benny Parsons," featuring a contest called the "IRWIN Rough to Finish Award."  This weekly honor is awarded to the crew chief who had the toughest day in the pits, but still managed to help his team to a strong finish.

In addition to broadcasting live play-by-play NASCAR action, the Performance Racing Network also syndicates four racing programs to over 700 stations nationwide which includes, Fast Talk with Benny Parsons, The Pit Reporters, PRN's Garage Pass and Racing Country USA.  PRN is a subsidiary of Speedway Motorsports, Inc., a leading marketer and promoter of motorsports entertainment in the United States.

IRWIN offers a complete line of saw blades and drill bits. From framing to the finest trim work; the performance of your bit and/or blade can be the difference between a long, hard day or one that runs smooth and easy.  IRWIN specializes in the engineering and the manufacturing of these high performance bits and blades.  Each is engineered to last, to deliver precision cuts and to optimize the output of your power tool.  IRWIN drill bits includes SPEEDBOR wood boring bits, TURBOMAX drill bits, UNI-BIT step drill bits, and the unique IRWIN multi-purpose drill bits that penetrate various materials such as brick, marble, plastic, metal, cement and wood.  A complete list of IRWIN products and capabilities is online at www.irwintool.com.