TaxSlayer.com today announced its title sponsorship of the Motorsports Journalism Awards of Excellence presented by Charlotte Motor Speedway. The awards, which have been administered annually since 1985, honor the legacy of Russ Catlin, a pioneer in motorsports media, and are among of the most prestigious, independent accolades in the field of motorsports journalism.
One winner is named in five categories of journalism: writing for daily newspapers, writing for other written media (weekly publications, online), local radio and television, national radio and television, and photojournalism. Winners will be presented with an individual award, and TaxSlayer.com will make a $1,000 scholarship contribution in their name to the charity of their choice. As in years past, the Indiana University School of Journalism will review all of the nominations and determine the winners.
TaxSlayer.com will recognize the five 2011 award winners at a special presentation during the NASCAR Sprint Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway.
“TaxSlayer.com is excited to partner with Charlotte Motor Speedway to honor the best in motorsports journalism,” said Daniel Eubanks, Director of Motorsports for TaxSlayer.com. “We appreciate the devotion and passion that the motorsports media exhibits in delivering fans the finest coverage possible. Their connection with the motorsports audience is what keeps the fans tuned into the sport week in and week out and we are proud to salute them.”
Broadcasting legend Ken Squier was the recipient of the 1985 TaxSlayer.com Motorsports Journalism Award of Excellence in the electronic broadcasting category. The award is among his many coveted media achievements, which also consist of the Henry T. McLenore Motorsports Press Award, Buddy Shuman Award, Eastern Motor Sport Press Association Award and the Flock Award.
“It (Russ Catlin Motorsports Journalism Awards of Excellence) was an early attempt to gain credibility for the motorsports industry,” said Squier. “Catlin understood the importance of doing that.”
“Charlotte Motor Speedway has presented the Motorsports Journalism Awards of Excellence for 26 years and we’re proud to continue this great tradition,” said Scott Cooper, vice president of communications at Charlotte Motor Speedway. “We’re thrilled to have TaxSlayer.com help us honor the efforts that our motorsports media contributes each year.”
The award is among the most coveted in motorsports journalism. Journalists from media outlets including USA Today, CBS Sports, Sports Illustrated and the Washington Post have all been past winners.
For daily updates on October race activities, connect with Charlotte Motor Speedway by following on Twitter at www.twitter.com/CLTMotorSpdwy or become a Facebook fan at www.facebook.com/charlottemotorspeedway.
TaxSlayer PR
