Canadian Auto Writer Speeds to Victory in AAA Race Simulation at NAIAS in Detroit

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 13, 2006 -- Malcolm Gunn of Wheelbase Communications in New Brunswick, Canada outmaneuvered representatives from more than 100 news media organizations Tuesday (January 10) in a simulated NASCAR race sponsored by AAA during the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

Gunn posted a 206.339 mph average speed in the racecar simulator, which is powered by a computer program representative of the tracks on which the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series is run. AAA will sponsor the #6 AAA Ford Fusion, driven by Mark Martin, in NASCAR's Nextel Cup series this year.

Winner of second place in the charity event was Al Johnson, planning editor for Fox TV 2 in Detroit. He navigated the course with an average speed of 205.956 mph.

In addition to presenting certificates to the race participants, AAA provided cash donations to the favorite charities of each of the winners. Gunn, who earned $2,500 for his virtual victory, will contribute his prize money to the Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund. Johnson selected Children's Hospital of Detroit to receive his second-place winner's purse of $1,500.

"Sponsorship of a car and driver on the hugely popular NASCAR racing circuit will help raise AAA's profile with the many fans of this major spectator sport," said Charles H. Podowski, president and CEO of The Auto Club Group (ACG), which represents AAA Michigan and other AAA-affiliated Clubs throughout the Midwest. "The sponsorship ties very nicely into AAA's century- long commitment to supporting continued improvement in vehicle safety."

"Many of the safety features we take for granted on today's passenger vehicles, such as lap-and-shoulder safety belts and hydraulic brakes, were introduced and perfected in racecars," Podowski added. "NASCAR races will continue to be the proving ground for new safety equipment, and the AAA clubs that comprise The Auto Club Group are pleased and proud to help support that progress."

As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides nearly 49 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security for all travelers.