Indianapolis, Ind. (December 16, 2004)-Who knew? Ed Cercek and Mike Irwin began their journey with Championship Off Road Racing in 2001 with a pull-behind trailer, zero drivers and a story to tell. That is how Cercek, a Light Truck Engineer with Kumho Tires, describes his first race weekend with Championship Off Road Racing.

Four years later, Kumho is taking another giant step in their relationship with the CORR Lucas Oil Series. CORR Officials announced that Kumho Tires will be the Official Tire of the CORR Lucas Oil Series in 2005.

"There is no doubt that in just three short years we have made believers out of the off road community," said Mike Leverington, Director of Marketing for Kumho. "We have worked our way up the ladder earning our stripes to get to where we are today. But we still have our work cut out for us. We are looking forward to the challenge."

In 2004, Kumho sponsored more than 15 teams in all eight CORR Lucas Oil Series divisions. By taking a chance with an 'unproven' brand three years ago, the Kumho drivers proved that the brand was for real in off-road racing. Steve McCrossan (Pro-4), Dan Vanden Heuvel (Pro-2), Chad Hord (Pro-Lite), and 2004 Stock champion Keith Steele are a few of the drivers who use Kumho tires.

As the Official Tire of Championship Off Road Racing, Kumho's name recognition will continue to expand throughout the world. As the 9th largest tire manufacturer in the world, the Kumho name may not be as well known, but it will be.

"If you want to grow your brand awareness you have to do something extreme to differentiate your brand from the competition," noted Leverington. "CORR provides that television and trackside friendly venue that allows a smaller brand to be competitive with the majors who have been in off road racing for many years."

Kumho's first taste as the Official Tire of Championship Off Road Racing came at the SEMA show in Las Vegas. Since that time, the response has been overwhelming.

"Dealers from around the country personally told me that they thought this was a strong move for the brand and they felt the extra exposure would be a definite benefit for their business," said Leverington. "It proves Kumho is a player where tires must perform to be successful."

For more information on Kumho Tires or the CORR Lucas Oil Series, visit www.kumhotireusa.com or www.corracing.com