Avis Presents 2008 Spirit Awards to Athletes Driven to Succeed at ING New York City Marathon

Alyssa Johnson Recognized for Courage and Perseverance at Annual Pre-Marathon Celebration

NEW YORK, NY, Oct 29, 2008 (MARKET WIRE via COMTEX) -- New York Road Runners and Avis Rent A Car System, LLC, announced today that Yannick Benjamin and Alyssa Johnson have won the Avis Spirit Award in conjunction with the ING New York City Marathon 2008. The award, previously known as the Avis "We Try Harder" Award, celebrates people who endeavor to overcome considerable obstacles through courage and extraordinary effort. For the fifth consecutive year, a panel that included representatives from Avis, Achilles Track Club and New York Road Runners selected the two winners from among hundreds of ING New York City Marathon participants nominated by friends and family. The awards will be presented on Wednesday, October 29 at Tavern on the Green.

Alyssa Johnson, Santa Cruz, Calif.

Johnson was only 40 years old when she was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson's disease in 2005. Her Parkinson's impaired the right side of her body, which has left her to run by dragging her right leg and unable to swing her right arm. Though she often struggles through her runs, and at times there is more walking than running, she perseveres. She is determined to reach the finish line of the ING New York City Marathon and raise awareness, along with funds for Parkinson's disease. As a member of Team Fox, The Michael J. Fox Foundation's community fundraising program, Johnson has raised close to $78,000 for Parkinson's research. Johnson's story is unique in that she is fighting a serious disease, but she is no different than any other runner: facing challenges and pushing forward to achieve a goal. She is a true athlete and an inspiration to any runner. Her story is one of courage, persistence and hope.

"We congratulate Yannick and Alyssa for the extraordinary commitment they have shown to reach this year's race," said Becky Alseth, senior vice president of marketing for Avis Budget Group, parent of Avis. "Their drive for excellence despite many obstacles inspires all of us at Avis to provide the service and tools that people with disabilities need to achieve, no matter what their goal."