One Elkhart high school student has a new ride, thanks to his good attendance.

Memorial High School gave away a used car to a student who attained at least a 97-percent attendance rate this school year.

Patrick McCreary, a junior at Memorial, won the 1996 Dodge Stratus.

He was one of 120 students in the drawing for the vehicle.

“I actually came to school, and it paid off,” said McCreary excitedly. “I got a brand new car.”

Next week, Central High School will give away a 2001 Chevy Malibu to a student who attained a 99-percent attendance rate.

Five hundred students are eligible to win.