IRWIN Tools Launches 2010 Ultimate Tradesman Challenge – Global Competition for Skilled Professionals

On March 19, IRWIN Tools, a leader in professional hand tools and power tool accessories, announced the launch of the 2010 Ultimate Tradesman Challenge.

The competition invites skilled tradespeople worldwide to compete for the title of IRWIN Tools Ultimate Tradesman. Events will take place across the United States, Canada, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Poland, Denmark, Australia, and New Zealand.

IRWIN’s mission is to honor the dedication of tradesmen who build and maintain the world around us. The Challenge celebrates those who perform their work with precision, passion, and a commitment to excellence.

“IRWIN Tools and its leading sub‑brands have earned a reputation for delivering best‑in‑class products by relentlessly addressing the needs of professional tradespeople worldwide,” said Curt Rahilly, VP of Marketing. “Our focus on these craftsmen extends to global marketing efforts that highlight the vital contributions of hands‑on professionals. They make a real difference in society, and they deserve tools that work as hard as they do.”

The global competition tests participants in a timed, skill‑based series of tasks. Contestants begin by using IRWIN VISE‑GRIP GrooveLock pliers to remove two pipe fittings (Grip It). They then mark three lines on a standard 2” x 4” x 24” board with an IRWIN square and pencil, clamp the board with an IRWIN QUICK‑GRIP XP600 one‑handed bar clamp, and cut along the line with an IRWIN Universal Hand Saw (Rip It). Finally, they drill two precise holes with an IRWIN SPEEDBOR Max Speed drill bit (Drive It). The clock stops when the board fits perfectly in the qualifying channel, and the fastest time wins.

Visit www.irwin.com for full details of the challenge, including the task specifications and a video demonstration.

North American Kick‑Off at Bristol Motor Speedway

The 2010 North American IRWIN Tools Ultimate Tradesman Challenge debuted on SPEED Channel’s Trackside at Bristol Motor Speedway on Friday, March 19. Over 50 events followed across North America. All local competitors receive IRWIN gear, and the day’s fastest performer walks away with an IRWIN tool bag and genuine Cat footwear.

Twenty‑four top tradesmen will travel to Bristol for the North American Championship on Friday, August 20, 2010, during the inaugural IRWIN Tools Night Race weekend. The champion earns a year’s supply of Cat footwear and a custom IRWIN Tools Mustang GT Premium Pace Car, the official pace car of the IRWIN Tools Night Race Sprint Cup Series event.

The North American champion will advance to the World Finals in March 2011, again at Bristol Motor Speedway. Six worldwide finalists will compete for the title of IRWIN Tools Ultimate Tradesman, with the winner receiving a custom 2010 IRWIN Ultimate Tradesman Challenge trophy and the chance to win $1 million.

For more information, official rules, and local events, visit www.irwin.com.