[THE INVESTOR] Kumho Tire was the exclusive provider for all cars that competed in the annual Masters of Formula 3 race held in the Netherlands from Aug. 19-21, the tire-maker said Aug. 22.

Kumho provided its Ecsta S700 and W700 racing slicks -- manufactured for circuit use -- to the vehicles.

The Masters of Formula 3 is the unofficial European F3 championship car race. It draws crowds of an average 45,000 people, and is considered a valid marketing opportunity for auto parts-makers.

Kumho Tire was first named the official tire provider for the race in 2002 after trumping Japan’s Bridgestone. This year marks its 15th straight year as the official supplier.

By Kim Ji-hyun (jemmie@heraldcorp.com)