Catchfence

Laura Burba of Pineville, N.C., registered top score in online essay contest to capture grand prize – a Chevrolet Equinox delivered by Richard Childress Racing driver Clint Bowyer

After winning NASCAR’s first race in New Hampshire last Sunday that surely generated plenty of momentum heading into Dover this weekend, one wouldn’t think Clint Bowyer would be ready to relinquish the car keys so easily.

But, on Wednesday, the Richard Childress Racing driver did just that, handing over the keys to a new Chevrolet Equinox to Laura Burba of Pineville, N.C., who beat out four other national finalists to capture The Hartford 200, a program from The Hartford celebrating the deep connection that Americans have with their cars and their personal stories from the road.

Bowyer, The Hartford-sponsored driver of the No. 33 Chevrolet, who is currently in second place in the Chase for the Sprint Cup championship standings, surprised the 68-year old woman with a special presentation outside of the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Then, Bowyer took her for a ceremonial first drive around uptown Charlotte.

Burba’s essay detailed how important her car is to her, as she drives a group of retiree tap dancers called the MsSteps for multiple weekly performances at senior centers and events across the region. She’ll now be able to transport her dance team to its next gig in style. Burba was joined for the surprise by her friends in the MsSteps to celebrate the grand prize moment. Her winnings also include a VIP race experience and recognition in a special print advertisement in Charlotte.

“The Hartford searched far and wide to select the best candidate to win this great promotion,” said Bowyer. “It’s nice to see someone in our race team’s backyard be selected, especially being rewarded for doing so much for others. I am excited for Ms. Burba. It was great to see the expression on her face when I handed her the keys to her new car.”

The winner was chosen through a combination of a blue ribbon panel of judges comprised of Richard Childress Racing drivers Bowyer and Jeff Burton, team owner Richard Childress and Hartford executives, as well as a consumer vote.

“Through this program, The Hartford provided an opportunity for Americans to show how their connection with their cars allows them to keep their lives moving forward uninterrupted,” said Mitchell Jawitz, vice president, The Hartford.  “Of the thousands of essays we received, we were especially inspired by Laura’s story and feel she embodies the spirit of The Hartford 200.”

The Hartford is the primary sponsor of Bowyer’s Richard Childress Racing No. 33 Chevrolet Impala for three Sprint Cup Series races – Darlington (S.C.) Raceway (May 8), Pocono (Pa.) Raceway (August 1) and Auto Club Speedway in California (October 10)  – as well as associate sponsor for the remaining 2010 events. The Hartford is also an associate sponsor of Burton in the Sprint Cup Series.

- Catalyst Public Relations, Press Release