Engineering Students from Eight Colleges, Including The University of Akron, to Race in F1 Shootout at Goodyear Proving Grounds

AKRON, Ohio--September 16, 2011: Engineering students from eight colleges from across the nation, including The University of Akron, will compete in a battle of speed, endurance and design in the 2011 Goodyear Formula SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) Shootout competition.

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company supports young engineers and uses this event to help students understand the important role tires play in the performance of a vehicle. Goodyear has built a strong relationship with FSAE as a tire supplier for the race teams and as a sponsor of the organization. In fact, Goodyear manufactures the high-performance tires used on the FSAE vehicles at its Akron Innovation Center.

WHO: Select university teams participating in Formula SAE, a collegiate design competition, in which students create, test and race scale models of Formula One racecars and Goodyear engineering and human resources associates

WHAT: During the day-long event, students will race for a chance to win free high-performance tires for their FSAE race cars. Goodyear uses this event to recruit and employ college students.

WHERE: Goodyear Akron Proving Grounds on Sieberling Street in Akron, south of the Goodyear Innovation Center

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 17, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Arriving at 1:30 p.m. is suggested for the best opportunity to see the action and interview participants.

Brian Jakubowski, Goodyear FSAE program coordinator, and participating students will be available throughout the day for press interviews.  This event is not open to the general public.