NHRA: Matco Tools to sponsor NHRA National event in Englishtown, N.J.
1 October 1999
Posted By Terry
Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel
GLENDORA, Calif. - Matco Tools, a leading distributor of
professional tools and equipment, has reached a multi-year agreement with
the National Hot Rod Association to sponsor the NHRA Winston Drag Racing
Series national event at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park beginning in the
year 2000, NHRA Vice President of Sales Steve Johnson has announced.The 31st annual Matco Tools Spring Supernationals is scheduled for May 18-21 at the historic Englishtown, N.J. quarter-mile. The race is the eight of 23 events in the $40 million NHRA Winston Drag Racing Series in 2000. The commitment adds to Matco Tools' involvement with NHRA Winston Drag Racing.
"This is an incredible package for our company and all Matco Tools distributors," said Eric Mullenmeister, Matco Tools vice president of sales and motorsports marketing. "Our two national events give us unequalled exposure among racing fans, professionals who rely on our products, and potential Matco franchise owners across North America. Our many distributors depend on Matco for innovative sales and marketing programs and other business-building opportunities. NHRA sponsorships have allowed us to support the needs and interests of each of these important audiences."
The company also sponsors the Matco Tools Supernationals at Houston Raceway Park. In addition, Matco Tools is the primary sponsor for Dean Skuza's Dodge Avenger Funny Car.
"We are extremely thrilled to see Matco Tools expand their presence in NHRA Winston Drag Racing," Johnson said. "They have certainly demonstrated their ability to effectively utilize NHRA's programs as part of their marketing direction. This alliance certainly bodes well for the historic event at Englishtown. Matco Tools has played a significant role with the promotion and exposure they continue to create for us. They are a great partner in growing our fan base."
Matco Tools, headquartered in Stow, Ohio, is a subsidiary of Danaher Corporation and has been a manufacturer and distributor of professional quality mechanics' tools and service equipment since 1979. Matco is represented across the United States and Puerto Rico by more than 1,300 distributors.
Headquartered in Glendora, Calif., the NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. It presents 23 national events through its NHRA Winston Drag Racing Series. The NHRA has 85,000 members nationwide and 142 member tracks. The NHRA-sanctioned sportsman and bracket racing series' provide competition opportunities for drivers of all levels. The NHRA develops the stars of tomorrow by offering the Federal-Mogul Drag Racing Series, Sears Craftsman E.T. Racing Series and the Street Legal Program. The NHRA also offers the Jr. Drag Racing League for youths ages 8 to 17.
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