Hyundai Hands-On Contest: winner gives car to his mother

Hyundai Hands-On Contest: winner gives car to his mother

The only thing more stunning than the moment when William Holmes picked the lucky key that fit his brand new Hyundai Tucson was what happened moments later. After six days and five nights of nearly continuous contact with the prize vehicle in The Washington Auto Showês Hyundai Hands-On Contest, Holmes, of Mitchellville, Md., held the key to the Tucson high above his head and handed it over to this mother, Margaret Holmes.

–I couldnêt think of a greater gift to give to my personal hero than a stylish new means of transportation to aid her in assisting others within her community,” Holmes wrote in his contest application essay, distinguishing him as one of nine finalists from more than 500 applicants to the popular annual contest.

One of five finalists to last until the contest ended at noon on Sunday, Holmes was the third contestant to select a key that would unlock his dream for his mother. When it did, the crowd, which included about a dozen of Holmesê relatives, went wild, the shock and jubilation leaving several witnesses in tears.

–You just won a brand new Hyundai!” announced Kevin Reilly, president of Alexandria Hyundai and past show chairman, on behalf of the Washington Area Hyundai Dealers, which sponsored the contest.

Holmes wrote in his application that his mother had bought a used 15-passenger bus to help in her community outreach, which has included a host of activities and fundraising events for children and her church members, such as fishing trips, sporting events and ladiesê tea parties.

–The Hands-On Contest always delivers heartfelt stories and this one was an especially touching example of the love of family and community,” said WANADA president John OêDonnell.