Gordon waves green in Power Wheels Challenge

EAST AURORA, N.Y. -- Jeff Gordon led kids to the finish line at the Power Wheels All-Star Challenge, sponsored by Fisher-Price, the largest infant and preschool toy manufacturer and a subsidiary of Mattel Inc.

Pint-sized racers drove Fisher-Price's new battery-powered NASCAR Power Wheels in a special race prior to the Nextel All-Star Challenge on Saturday at Lowe's Motor Speedway.

Kids had a blast racing their favorite drivers' replica cars, including Gordon's No. 24 Chevrolet, Dale Earnhardt Jr., driver of the No. 8 Chevrolet, and Jimmie Johnson, driver of the No. 48 Chevrolet. Stadium announcer Ozzie Altman provided the commentary while Gordon kicked off the race by waving the green flag. Gordon presented trophies to the race participants who also took home their very own NASCAR Power Wheels vehicles.

"Kids love imitating their favorite athletes," says Russ Coddington, vice president of marketing for Power Wheels, Fisher-Price. "With NASCAR being one of the fastest-growing family sports, it was a natural for Power Wheels to partner with NASCAR. The cars enable kids to slip behind the wheel and pretend to be one of their favorite racecar drivers."

Not only can kids experience the behind-the-wheel sensation of driving, they can also stylize their cars with authentic NASCAR details. Kids can choose from favorite racers like Gordon, Earnhardt Jr., Johnson and Tony Stewart, driver of the No. 20 Chevrolet. The vehicles deliver two child-appropriate speeds -- 2.5 mph and 5 mph, as well as 2.5 mph in reverse. The weight limit is 65 pounds and the vehicle includes a 12-volt battery and charger.

NASCAR Power Wheels, appropriate for ages 3 and up, will retail for approximately $209.99 and will be available nationally in July 2007.