HUDSON, Ohio, Nov. 4 -- For many people, memories of their first car are as cherished as thoughts of a first family pet, first day of school or first kiss. Chances are, if you were a child growing up in the 1970's and beyond, the first car you "drove" was a hot little number named the Cozy Coupe.
The Little Tikes Company, makers of that classic cherry-red model, is inviting Cozy Coupe owners past and present to take a trip down memory lane for a chance to win a unique trip to see the toys of tomorrow -- a prize that kids of all ages will love. The contest celebrates the announcement of the Cozy Coupe as "Toy of the Year" for 1979. The title was granted by the Toy Industry Association, which is marking the 100th anniversary of the American International Toy Fair by naming the 100 most "monumental" toys.
Little Tikes is seeking "Coziest Cozy Coupe Memories" from anyone who has fond memories of the Cozy Coupe. Whether it was a gift you gave to your child for their birthday this year, or one your parents gave you two decades ago, the Ohio-based toy manufacturer is looking for memories and pictures from families throughout North America. While all of the entries will collectively be on display at the 2003 Toy Fair in New York, only one lucky family of four will get to see the show in person and preview the hot new toy models from Little Tikes and hundreds of other manufacturers.
Cozy Coupe - Driving Imagination Since 1979
"Many things have changed since that first Cozy Coupe rolled off the line, but it still remains one of America's most beloved toys," said Rory Leyden, president of Little Tikes. "As with all Little Tikes toys, the Cozy Coupe was designed with a focus on stimulating the imagination of the youngest children and creating opportunities for kids to try on different roles while they play at being grown-up."
In 1998, the company introduced a new model, the Cozy Coupe II, and more than 2 million of that model have been sold since its debut. The updated "ride on" toy features a working door and horn, rugged, durable tires, and storage in the back so children can pack for those "longer journeys."
The Cozy Coupe Can Drive You All the Way to New York!
From Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2002, Little Tikes will be accepting entries for the "Coziest Cozy Coupe Memories" contest. Participants should submit 250 words or less describing their child's or their own most memorable moment growing up with the Cozy Coupe. Entrants are encouraged to send along relevant photos with their essay.
All entries will become part of Little Tikes' special Cozy Coupe showcase at the 2003 Toy Fair in New York from Feb. 16-20, 2003. A panel of toy experts will select one grand prize winner from all entries received for a trip for four to New York, where they'll have an opportunity to experience Toy Fair, a trade show closed to the general public. Two first prize winners will each receive a Cozy Coupe II Car.
All entries should be sent to: "Coziest Cozy Coupe Memories," c/o E. Schreiber, 676 N. St. Clair, Suite 1000, Chicago, IL, 60611. For complete contest rules and information, or to enter the contest online, visit http://www.littletikes.com.
About Little Tikes: The Little Tikes Company, founded in 1970, is a Hudson, Ohio-based multi-national manufacturer and marketer of high-quality, innovative children's products. The world's largest rotational molder and a Newell Rubbermaid company, Little Tikes employs more than 2,000 associates around the world. For more information, visit http://www.littletikes.com.
