ATV Safety Institute hosting video contest for young riders

With the busy summer riding season upon us, the ATV Safety Institute (ASI) encourages kids to enter the “Do the Ride Thing” Video Contest. Sponsored by the ASI, the contest runs June 18 to September 6, 2010 and offers 10 prizes totaling $10,000. Students ages six to 18 may enter. The winning 30- and 60-second videos will be used as public service announcements by the ATV Safety Institute.

“What better way to motivate and inform people – especially kids and their parents – about the safe and responsible use of all-terrain vehicles than to have kids create videos that highlight one or more of the ATV Safety Institute’s Golden Rules?” says Paul Vitrano, executive vice president, ASI. “By harnessing the social networking power of YouTube, it gives kids the opportunity to ‘Do the Ride Thing’ and help other kids ride safe/ride smart.”

To enter, kids create a 30- or 60-second video/PSA, upload it to YouTube, and submit an entry form on the ASI website. For official video content requirements, contest rules and entry forms, visit http://www.atvsafety.org/ATV_PSA_Contest/index.html.

There will be three winners in each of the three age categories: 6-10, 11-14, and 15-18. 1st Place winners earn $1,100, 2nd Place is $800, and 3rd Place is $600. Plus, all age categories are eligible to win the $2,500 Grand Prize. The ten prizes total $10,000.

The ATV Safety Institute’s Golden Rules:1. Always wear a helmet and other protective gear.2. Never ride on public roads — another vehicle could hit you.3. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.4. Never carry a passenger on a single-rider vehicle, nor more than an operator and passenger on an ATV designed for two persons.5. Ride an ATV that’s right for your age.6. Supervise riders younger than 16; ATVs are not toys.7. Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.8. Take an ATV RiderCourse; call toll-free at 800.887.2887, or go to http://www.atvsafety.org/ to sign up or try the new free online e-course.