It’s time for NASCAR to open the record books. LENOX Industrial Tools and New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS) announce they have gone the EXTRA MILE – literally – with the creation of the LENOX Industrial Tools 301.

For the first time in history, the length of a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race will be 301 laps. The EXTRA MILE was added in honor of LENOX customers – users and suppliers of industrial tools – who perform physically demanding jobs, yet receive little recognition.  To celebrate their efforts, LENOX announces the EXTRA MILE HERO program.

“The LENOX philosophy is to go the EXTRA MILE in our product performance and service to our customers.” said Bill Burke, President of LENOX Industrial Tools. “This program will recognize the heroes of our industry who go above and beyond by contributing to their communities in a meaningful way.”

LENOX will conduct a hero search throughout 2008.  Ten finalists will be chosen to receive a cash prize and a matching donation to a charity of their choice.  One grand prize winner will have a chance to win one million dollars to split with their selected charity. Finalists will also be honored at the 2009 LENOX Industrial Tools 301 at NHMS.

“Our goal here at New Hampshire Motor Speedway is to always go the extra mile for our guests,” said Jerry Gappens, Executive Vice President and General Manager of New Hampshire Motor Speedway. “This is a great way, through our partnership with LENOX, to acknowledge everyone who goes the extra mile each and every day.  If you look at the history of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, how many times have you heard the second place driver say, ‘If I only had one more lap?’”