Mario Batali, Lifetime Products Search for NASCAR's Best Tailgaters

Tailgaters Have Until July 26 to Enter National Tailgating Championship

NEW YORK, June 20 -- Throughout the summer, avid tailgaters have the chance to enter The Tailgate of a Lifetime Tailgating Championship. Five finalists, vying for the title of "America's Ultimate Tailgater" and a $10,000 grand prize will be given the opportunity to create over-the-top NASCAR-themed tailgate parties complete with unique set-ups, gourmet versions of quintessential tailgate fare and spectacular, colorful decorations that honor the celebrity drivers they support. The official chef of NASCAR, Mario Batali, will be on hand to judge the contest along with NASCAR legend, Ernie Irvan and Richard Hendrickson, president of Lifetime Products, Inc.

Tailgaters who think they have what it takes to stand out amid millions of dedicated NASCAR tailgaters have until Wednesday, July 26, 2006 to enter the contest and will be asked to submit a compilation of tailgating tips, an original recipe and an explanation of what makes their tailgates unique. For full entry requirements and contest rules, visit tailgateofalifetime.com.

"NASCAR tailgaters have raised the bar. Cold cuts and plastic tablecloths don't cut it anymore," said Batali, author of Mario Tailgates NASCAR Style (Sporting News 2006). "Real NASCAR tailgating is about big food, big decorations and big fun."

This spirit will be brought to life on a grand scale during The Tailgate of a Lifetime Tailgating Championship on Saturday, August 19. The five finalists will go head-to-head, creating their ultimate tailgate parties on Michigan International Speedway's Fan Plaza. In addition to the title and cash prize, the champion will go home with an ultimate tailgating prize pack from Lifetime Products, the world's leading manufacturer of folding tables and chairs -- two must-haves for great tailgate set-ups. The five finalists will each be provided an all-expense paid vacation package for themselves and a guest to Michigan International Speedway to compete in the championship.

The Tailgate of a Lifetime is a trademark of Lifetime Products, Inc.

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