(MISSISSAUGA) – Subaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) is pleased to participate in the 34th Annual Automotive Journalism Awards as a new sponsor of the 2017 Subaru Feature Writing Award. At the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) awards banquet in Ajax, Ontario, Subaru Canada recognized 2017 Subaru Feature Writing Award winner, Steve Mertl, and first runner-up, Steven Bochenek.
The winning recipient of the Subaru Feature Writing Award, Steve Mertl, introduced the reader to a key figure in the automotive industry with his article, “Interview with Jim Pattison.” The bilingual team of judges connected with a well-written, thoughtful article chronicling a Canadian entrepreneur success story
The first runner-up, Steven Bochenek, entertained the judges with his foray into a new profession, pulling back the curtain and giving the reader a glimpse with a front-seat, first-person account with his submission, “Life as a Would-Be Uber Driver.”

This is Subaru Canada’s first year presenting the Feature Writing Award. The longer feature story covers a wide range of subjects. In essence, if a story does not fit into another category, this is probably the place for it. The award recognizes compelling stories that develop a connection between the author and his or her audience.
“As an appealing alternative to the mainstream, Subaru builds a strong connection to our customers,” said Yasushi Enami, president and CEO of Subaru Canada, Inc. “Earlier this year, our parent company, Subaru Corporation, changed its name as a distinctive shift from a company that simply makes things to one that makes people smile with its distinctive tenets of peace of mind and driving enjoyment. Subaru focuses on peace of mind through its core values of safety and quality, durability and reliability. We strive to deliver enjoyment by recognizing that our vehicles are an extension of our customers’ lives. This is reflected in the performance and versatility of our vehicles designed for adventure and active lifestyles.”