Mitsubishi Motors Presents New 2008 Eclipse to Winner of Champs Sports "Bowl Bingo"

Central Florida Resident Wins New Vehicle After Losing Previous Car and Home to a Tornado.

OCALA, FL --Mitsubishi Motors and Champs Sports handed Sumter County resident Maryann Goniea the keys to a new 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse at Ocala Mitsubishi today, helping her family recover from losing their home and previous car to last February’s deadly Central Florida tornadoes.

Ms. Goniea received the new Eclipse as the grand prize winner of the Champs Sports “Bowl Bingo” promotion held during the Champs Sports Bowl hosted by Florida Citrus Sports last December. Ms. Goniea participated in the bingo game while attending the football game between her son’s school, Michigan State, and Boston College.

The Goniea’s had been in the market for a new car, so news of the grand prize selection couldn’t have come at a better time. The Goniea’s lost their home and vehicle when three tornadoes devastated Central Florida on February 2nd, 2007, slamming their hometown of The Villages.

“This past year has been very hard on us, so we are just thrilled that this happened,” said Ms. Goniea. “We are still trying to get back on our feet and having this car is just such a huge help.”

Ocala Mitsubishi General Manager Steve Lightbody and Randy Sterling, Regional Dealer Advertising Manager, Mitsubishi Motors North America greeted the Goniea’s as they arrived to pick up their new vehicle. “We’re delighted that this car will play a part in helping the Goniea’s recover from such a tragedy,” said Sterling.

The Champs Sports “Bowl Bingo” interactive promotion gave football fans a chance to fill out Bingo Cards that featured boxes with specific plays and happenings from the Champs Sports Bowl. Participants who scored “Bingo” were entered into the grand prize Mitsubishi Eclipse drawing, while others could mail in cards for other prize drawings, such as gift cards and electronics. “We are always looking for new ways to provide our customers with unique opportunities to show our gratitude for their patronage. We strive to strengthen our relationship with the core football fan and sports enthusiast,” said Rob Brodersen, vice president of marketing, Champs Sports. “It’s a great feeling to know that we were able to help out a family in need.”

In addition to the Grand Prize Mitsubishi Eclipse, Ms. Goniea also received a $250 gift card redeemable for apparel from Champs Sports retail stores.