DENVER, NC (1/25/2006) - Mechanix Wear®, maker of superior quality gloves, shoes and racing equipment, has become a product sponsor of The All-American Driver Challenge.

"We're excited to be a part of The All-American Driver Challenge," said Ted Abdon, Director of Racing for Mechanix Wear. "Racing is a tough industry to break into, so it's great to see a program like this where someone who may not have had the chance, is going to get a real shot at a racing career."

Drivers began qualifying for the AADC on July 1, 2005, competing for a fully paid contract to drive in the 2006 Carolina/Virginia USAC Midget Series. Open qualifying was held at go karting facilities around the country and ended on December 15th. Challengers were asked to submit their top 100 laps with the top 10 Challengers from each of the 10 regions advancing to the semi-final round.

The winner of the AADC will also receive a three-day racing school at the Derek Daly Performance Racing Academy in Las Vegas courtesy of www.Racingschools.com, the world's largest single source of auto racing school information.

From the first use of Mechanix Wear "Original" Gloves by pit crews at the 1992 Daytona 500, Mechanix Wear has continually defined the state of superior quality gloves, shoes and racing equipment. Starting in the early '80's when a team of dedicated motocross racers developed specialized gloves to protect their hands, to today's Mechanix Wear offices of over 65 professionals, the name Mechanix Wear has always stood for uncompromising quality and superior performance.

The AADC is a driver development and search program that is geared toward fostering the best up-and-coming talent for a future career in a professional American racing series. All aspiring racecar drivers between the ages of 15 and 26 were invited to enter the AADC and earn their way to becoming the next American racing hero. The All-American Driver Challenge is presented by Calico Coatings and other participating sponsors and endorsed by USAC. For more information, please visit www.allamericandriver.com or call 1.800.861.6491.