AGOURA HILLS, CA - October 12, 2007 - Employers Direct Insurance Company, California's only specialty direct writer of workers' compensation insurance, has announced its sponsorship of the 10th Annual Relay for Life of Conejo Valley to support the American Cancer Society.

The Relay for Life is a 24-hour celebration of hope and will take place October 13 and 14 at Newbury Park High School's Panther Stadium at 456 North Reino Road in Newbury Park. Teams of friends, families, and co-workers take turns walking or running laps - and each team keeps at least one team member on the track at all times. This fun-filled event raises money for research and programs of the American Cancer Society.

"As corporate and individual members of the Conejo Valley community, we are honored to participate in this worthwhile cause. Employers Direct is proud to support the Relay for Life and help make a difference," said James E. Little, Chairman/President & CEO of Employers Direct Insurance Company.

Employers Direct's employees enthusiastically chose to replace the annual company-sponsored summer picnic by participating in the Relay for Life. More than 50 employees will gather October 13-14 to support the local community and raise money for the American Cancer Society. During the weeks leading up to the "Relay for Life," employees of Employers Direct have hosted bake sales and other events to raise funds.

Relay for Life started in 1985, when Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon and avid runner, took the first step of his 24-hour walk/run around a track in Tacoma, Washington. He clocked 83 miles and raised $27,000 to support the American Cancer Society. The following year, 220 supporters on 19 teams joined Dr. Klatt in the overnight event, and the American Cancer Society Relay for Life was born. Since 1985, Relay for Life has spread to 4,200 cities in the United States and to eight countries. What began as one man's action in the fight against cancer has resulted in the development of a worldwide event to eliminate cancer.

This year's Relay for Life 24-marathon begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 13, and ends at 10 a.m. the next day. The Victory/Survivor Lap, where cancer survivors are honored for their courage, takes place at 10 a.m. on October 13. The Luminaria Ceremony takes place at dusk, at 8 p.m. on October 13, when the track is encircled with glowing luminarias - each bag represents a life touched by cancer. More information can be found online at www.relayforlife.org.

About EMPLOYERS DIRECT INSURANCE COMPANY

Employers Direct Insurance Company is California's only specialty direct writer of workers’ compensation insurance. Rated "A-" (Excellent) VIII by A.M. Best, Employers Direct has been widely accepted by business owners throughout California as a result of providing highly competitive rates, claims services designed to fight fraud and abuse, and loss prevention services that assist employers to create safe work environments. Founded in 2002, Employers Direct takes advantage of the latest technology to provide its customers with 24/7 access to all policy and claims information via a secure Internet portal. Niche industries include construction, hotels, restaurants, golf and country clubs, new car dealers, food processors, manufacturing companies, specialty supermarket chains, and retailers. Employers Direct is a subsidiary of Alleghany Corporation (NYSE: Y). Visit Employers Direct online at www.employersdirect.com.

Employers Direct Insurance Company

Employers Direct Insurance Company

Employers Direct Insurance Company is California’s only specialty direct writer of workers’ compensation insurance. Rated “A-” (Excellent) VIII by A.M. Best, Employers Direct has been widely accepted by business owners throughout California as a result of providing highly competitive rates, claims services designed to fight fraud and abuse, and loss prevention services that assist employers to create safe work environments. Founded in 2002, Employers Direct takes advantage of the latest technology to provide its customers with 24/7 access to all policy and claims information via a secure Internet portal. Niche industries include construction, hotels, restaurants, golf and country clubs, new car dealers, food processors, manufacturing companies, specialty supermarket chains, and retailers. Employers Direct is a subsidiary of Alleghany Corporation (NYSE: Y). Visit Employers Direct online at www.employersdirect.com.

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