Polk County High School Student Wins 2011 Ford Fiesta

Online, June 7, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Bartow, FL - Bartow Ford hosted its 18th Annual Drive for Excellence event on May 14, 2011. The event honored 20 Polk County Junior and Senior finalists who achieved educational excellence for the 2010 - 2011 school year.

This year's winner was Senior, Megan Bach, of Tenoroc High School in Lakeland, FL. Standing 14 spots away from the Ford Fiesta, Megan awaited her chance to try her key in the door. When she arrived at the door she put the key in the lock, and to her surprise, it opened. Megan's family immediately surrounded her with hugs and tears as they stood next to the vehicle.

"I can't believe I won but I didn't want to leave here without that car either so I'm grateful that I got this chance," said Megan.

When asked what she planned to do in her new Ford Fiesta, Megan answered that once she gets a tag and insurance on the vehicle she wants to drive it to Tennessee.

The Bartow Ford Drive for Excellence program was established to encourage excellence in education among Polk County Juniors and Seniors. For nearly two decades, this program has offered local students, who achieve A's, B's and perfect attendance, the chance to be drawn as a top qualifier for the opportunity to win a new Ford vehicle.

Benny Robles Sr., President of Bartow Ford, was all smiles when Megan's key unlocked the door of the Fiesta. Even in today's tough economic times, Bartow Ford keeps this program running because it provides students an incentive to better their grades and set higher goals which will become a life standard.

Benny said, "Megan is well deserving of this vehicle and I'm sure it will make a difference in her life now and in the future."

Benny continued by commenting on "too much emphasis can be placed on the negativity in the media" and that Drive for Excellence provides "good news about a successful, young student."

The event was sponsored by 97 Country WPCV and Deli Delicacies. Featured artist Justin Grimes performed live music during the event, while WPCV raffled give-a-ways and updated listeners with event details.

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Founded in 1948, Bartow Ford Company is a privately held company providing new and used vehicles, and automotive services. The Central Florida facility, located on 30 acres of property in Polk County, with over 200 employees, includes a service and parts department, detail depot, collision center, rental vehicles, commercial services and a quick-lane. Bartow Ford has achieved Ford Motor Company's prestigious President's Award 15 times. For more info on Bartow Ford Company, please visit www.BartowFord.com.

If you would like more information about this topic or to schedule an interview with Benny Robles Sr., please contact Jennifer Pope at 800-533-0425 ext. 239 or email [email protected].