Mechanic wins IROC experience of lifetime.

IROC sponsor True Value brought a special treat to the NASCAR Weekly Racing Series Champion's party last week by offering one of the ten regional Mechanics of the Year the opportunity to be part of the True Value team next season.

Tim Evans of Irwindale Speedway, the Pacific Coast regional winner, drew the matching red True Value IROC die-cast car that won him 'the Experience of a Lifetime'.

"This is truly an honour," stated Evans, "I've been a part of the California racing scene for the past ten years and I can honestly say that this is one year that I'll always remember, especially after winning three main events and placing in the top three in our 16 race series.

"Everything from serving as crew chief for Jeff Green and winning the track championship in the Super Stock division at Irwindale Speedway, to being recognised by my peers as the Pacific Coast Region True Value Mechanic of the Year has made for a banner year. Winning the chance to be a part of the True Value IROC event in addition is truly an opportunity of a lifetime."

Evans was voted by his peers the Pacific Coast Region 1999 Weekly Racing Series True Value Mechanic of the Year. In addition to experiencing a race as a True Value IROC mechanic, Evans will be recognised via PA announcements during the race and will receive a True Value toolbox signed by the world-class drivers who are participating in the 2001 True Value IROC series. He has already received awards that include $1,500; an all-expense paid trip to the NWRS banquet and tools from True Value Hardware Stores.

Frank Rothing, True Value's vice president of advertising, said the decision to include this "once in a lifetime" opportunity to the NWRS banquet definitely added another level of excitement to the awards ceremony.

"All of the ten regional True Value Mechanics of the Year are selected and voted on by their peers," he said, "This year a record shattering 10,500 ballots where cast for this honour. To be distinguished in this way by the many mechanics in this series is a remarkable achievement. In essence, the drawing for the 'Experience of a Lifetime' was just another way True Value could recognise this achievement and give one lucky winner a taste of what it's like to work in the big leagues."

The True Value IROC series holds a unique position in the world of racing as the only series that brings together the finest drivers in head-to-head competition, in identical vehicles. The 2000 season ended with season champion Dale Earnhardt edging out second-place finisher Mark Martin by three points. The roster of drivers for the 2001 series, the 25th anniversary season, will be announced in December.