Daytona International Speedway contest winner to kick off 2008 racing season

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Did you ever notice politicians always show up at neat places like the Super Bowl? The World Series? The Kentucky Derby? The Grammys?

Well, there won’t be a red carpet, but there will be plenty of high-octane excitement as one lucky race fan will receive two tickets to all DIRECTV Speedweeks races, be part of the historic Daytona 500 Gatorade Victory Lane celebration, and officially kick off DIRECTV Speedweeks at the Rolex 24 At Daytona practice – all just a few of the perks bestowed upon Daytona International Speedway’s “Mayor of DIRECTV Speedweeks 2008.”

Teaming with Black Crow Broadcasting (WVYB, 103.3 FM; WHOG, 95.7; 93.1 KRO Country), the winner will also receive access to pre-race and Sprint FANZONE on Sunday, Feb. 17, 2008, have your photo taken with area mayors, participate in DIRECTV Speedweeks 2008 Opening Ceremonies at Rolex 24 At Daytona practice, receive two tickets to the Daytona 500 Experience; wave the flag at Rolex practice session to officially get Speedweeks underway; serve as an honorary judge at the 2008 Rolex 24 At Daytona Chili Cook-off competition; attend the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Driver's Meeting; receive Party Zone access during the NASCAR Nationwide Series event and be part of the Gatorade Victory Lane celebration at NASCAR’s most prestigious race – the historic 50th running of the Daytona 500.

To get all the perks of a politician, fans need to tell Daytona officials “Why I Should Be Mayor of DIRECTV Speedweeks 2008” in 100 words or less.

Future politicos can enter by mailing their essay to: Mayor of Speedweeks c/o Daytona International Speedway, P.O. Box 2801, Daytona Beach, FL, 32120; E-Mail: daytonaspeedway@daytonainternationalspeedway.com or pick up and drop off your entry at Guest Services located at Daytona 500 Experience. Fans can also get information on-line at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com. Visit the same site for contest details.

The contest runs Dec. 10 – Jan. 7, 2008. Winner will be chosen and called by an employee of Daytona International Speedway the week of Jan. 7, 2008.