Goodyear Promotes TRALA Truck Driver Recognition

AKRON, Ohio, Feb. 8, 2005 -- Goodyear's focus on America's truck drivers is nearing another deadline -- this time, for the TRALA 2005 Driver of the Year.

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The Truck Renting and Leasing Association (TRALA) has designated Feb. 18 as the deadline to nominate a top driver for the award. The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company sponsors the annual award.

The program recognizes men and women who achieve the highest level of excellence in professional truck driving and demonstrate the vehicle renting and leasing industry's continuing commitment to highway safety, the TRALA said.

Now in its 18th year, the Driver of the Year -- as well as runners-up -- will be announced during TRALA's annual conference on April 7 in Tucson, Ariz. Goodyear officials will present the award and a cash prize.

The company also sponsors the popular Goodyear North American Highway Hero program, which recognizes and honors U.S. and Canadian professional truck drivers who exhibit selflessness and courage in helping others.

In both cases, the awards are an avenue to promote a positive image of truck drivers, Goodyear said.

The TRALA Driver of the Year can be nominated online at http://www.trala.org/conference/registration/drivernomination-2005.php . TRALA is a part of the American Trucking Association.

Goodyear commercial tire systems offer complete products and services to the trucking industry, including a full range of original equipment and replacement tires. In addition, the company's cradle-to-grave tire and service network includes retreading, tire management tools and business solutions for tomorrow's trucking fleets.

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