Racing Against Cancer Honored Team Fundraising VIPs at Annual Awards Banquet

Westbrook, CT (Jan 21, 2009)

On Saturday, January 10, 2009 the Racing Against Cancer TM Team celebrated the 12th Annual Awards Luncheon at the Foxwoods Resort Casino paying tribute to its heritage and its group of devoted supporters. During the emotional ceremony, a number of contributors shared the spotlight for their outstanding fundraising accomplishments during the 2008 racing season. Throughout the year, the Racing Against Cancer (RAC) Team members collectively raised over $53,000 for the fight against cancer.

“Despite the downturn in the economy the Racing Against Cancer TM Team was one of the few charitable organizations to show an increase,” said founder Jon Blanchette proudly.

During the event, Founder Kelly Turner of the CHAIN Fund and Barbara Ducharme, Executive Director of the Tomorrow Fund each accepted checks for $2,500. Founder Dick Cyr of David’s House received $5,000 and Bruce Marshall the Vice President of Income Development for the New England Chapter of the American Cancer Society was presented with a check in the amount of $25,000. The remainder of the funds will go to support the Youth Tobacco Awareness Program, the 2009 Celebration of Life event, and other RAC Programs.

“This program is so unique and so special,” said Joe Jimenez, Executive Vice President of Casino Marketing for the Foxwoods Resort Casino. “This is more important than any marketing plan that I have ever put together. Thank you for taking [Foxwoods Resort Casino] along for the journey.”

The cumulative fundraising total, after 12 years of operation, for the Racing Against Cancer Foundation is over $634,000.

“For the first-time ever both the incidents and death rates of all cancers cumulatively have declined in both men and women,” said Marshall of the American Cancer Society. “There are over 11 million cancer survivors in the United States. You are helping to save lives and I applaud you for that. Thanks to your efforts 11 million people are sitting down with their families having dinner tonight.”

It took a lot of people, countless hours, a number of events, and tireless efforts to get to that benchmark for the 2008 season. High points of the year included the Wings & Wheels event at the Waterford Speedbowl. With a portion of the proceeds from ticket sales going to RAC, the event raised over $6,200. The GoMotorBids.com and Speed Sport News online auction helped bolster fundraising efforts as well. After Tony Stewart piloted a Modified in 2007 as a fundraiser for RAC, body panels from the car and his autographed fire suit were auctioned off raising in excess of $4,000. The nationally recognized Big E Fair at the Eastern States Exposition provided the occasion for the RAC management team and countless volunteers to raise well over $20,000 for the Racing Against Cancer TM Program.

The awards ceremony included two very emotional presentations. A group of dedicated volunteers that included Heather Sica, Bill Doll, Kristen Phillips, Guy Beaudoin, and Norm Moriarity, who helped with the execution of the 17-day fundraising effort at the Big E Fair in West Springfield, MA, were presented with the 8th Annual William J. Fales Spirit of Sportsmanship Award, for their unwavering dedication to the program. These exceptional team members made up the Platinum Level contributors that are the cornerstone to the success for the program. The Richmond Karting Speedway Management and Race Teams collectively were awarded the 7th Annual Jodi B. Blanchette Outstanding Achievement Award for demonstrating outstanding achievement and leadership efforts in helping the Racing Against Cancer TM Team exceed its fundraising goals.

A host of organizations supporting the RAC Program were lauded for their Gold Level ($1,000-$4,999) contributions. By selling lap sponsorships during an event in 2008 at Whip City Speedway along with other fundraising endeavors, Kristin Phillips of the East Coast Mini Sprint Association helped to raise $4,100 in support of RAC. Racing brothers Shawn and Diego Monahan treated race fans at the Wings & Wheels event at the Waterford Speedbowl in August to a grudge match within the SK Modified feature event. With the help of Pataya Flooring & Stone Supply Company of Niantic, CT, who stepped in with a matching contribution, the good-natured endeavor helped to raise an additional $1,500 to the already outstanding night of fundraising for the RAC Program.

Motivated by her mother’s diagnosis with cancer, Kim Blackstone implored Howard Payne of the New England ATV Series to support the Racing Against Cancer Program. No stranger to the program, Payne and Blackstone jumped in to organize several fundraising events that ultimately raised over $1,740.

“We look forward to doing more for the Racing Against Cancer Program next season,” said Payne. “We will support the program 100% in 2009.”

Dave Crout ($1,895), Steve Pukas ($1,179), and Larry and Mike King ($1,000) were recognized for their outstanding individual efforts. Junior Ambassador-Gold level contributors also included Austin Brehio, a competitor at Sugar Hill Speedway along with young Richmond Karting Speedway racers Alicia Perry, Tommy Stilhen, Izzac Collins, and Willie Pelotte.

Individuals honored for their contributions to the program at the Silver level (raising $250-$999) included the Strumpf Family, Paul Tuthill, and Czarnecki Brothers Racing. Junior Ambassador-Silver level contributors included Richmond Karting Speedway racers Wade, Wyatt & Scott Blanchette, Joe Lynds, Taylor Robertson and Elle Burbank.

During the awards program several Speedways were recognized for their efforts including Sugar Hill Speedway (Weare, NH); Richmond Karting Speedway (Richmond, ME); Poughkeepsie Speedway (Poughkeepsie, NY); Route 106 Speedway (Pembroke, NH); Stafford Motor Speedway (Stafford, CT); Thompson International Speedway (Thompson, CT); Thundering Valley Speedway (St. Albans, ME); Waterford Speedbowl (Waterford, CT); and Whip City Speedway (Westfield, MA). Racing organizations honored for their support of the Racing Against Cancer Program included the East Coast Mini Sprint Association, New England ATV, North East Pavement Series, and the South Shore Outboard Association.

Other contributors to the success of the Racing Against Cancer Team include Speedway Illustrated, Jim Reed and KOOL 101 FM Radio, and the Stadium Sports Bar & Grill. Speedway Illustrated hosted the Racing Against Cancer Team during the annual SpeedwayEXPO. That along with a spirited Dunk Tank fundraiser (with the help of Shawn Courchesne of the Hartford Courant) kicked off the season with some much-needed funding. Reed and KOOL 101 were instrumental and promoting the Wings & Wheels event and ultimately helped to guarantee its success not only as a racing event but as an RAC Fundraiser. Ned Nichols and his staff at the Stadium Bar and Grill hosted the 2008 Daytona 500 Party helping to raise over $900. Amsoil Dealer Richard Bowling, Sherwin Williams Automotive Finishes, Times Publishing, MAACO, and Smith Bros. Transmissions were also recognized.

The 2009 Fundraising season kicks off at the 50th Anniversary of the Frank Maratta’s Auto Show on February 6-8, 2009 at the Connecticut Expo Center followed by SpeedwayEXPO at the Big E Fair at the Eastern States Exposition on February 27- March 1, 2009.

RAC Celebrates Outstanding Achievements at Annual Awards Banquet

Westbrook, CT (Nov 10, 2007)

The Racing Against Cancer™ Team celebrated the 2007 season in grand-style on Saturday afternoon. The Foxwoods Resort Casino provided the setting for the 11th Annual Awards luncheon that honored the accomplishments of the charitable organization’s strongest supporters. Unlike traditional banquets, the luncheon recognized the competitors for their contributions off the racetrack. In total, nearly 20 individual competitors and racing organizations were feted for a fundraising season that saw $52,000 raised for the fight against cancer.

The Racing Against Cancer™ Program has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1997, when a grieving husband vowed to deliver on his wife’s last wish. The first year, the fundraising tally reached $10,000. Now, some 11 years later, over $585,000 has been raised for the American Cancer Society and other cancer related programs. Thanks to the vision of founder Jon Blanchette, the tireless efforts of President and Director of Operations Scott Gregory, the long-standing commitment of the Foxwoods Resort Casino, the determination of team members and the countless race fans that have supported the program, something good has come from Jodi Blanchette’s valiant fight.

“Thanks to you people, Jodi’s wish came true”, said a gracious and fulfilled Blanchette as he addressed the 80 plus team members in attendance during his opening remarks.

Both Blanchette and Gregory acknowledged the importance of Foxwoods’ involvement in the success of the Racing Against Cancer Program™. From the conviction of the Foxwoods Executive Team to the host of volunteers like Don Bailey, Laureen Smith, Terrance Welsh, Nadia Espanova, Gene Santiago, and Thomas Larandeau, who were in attendance on Saturday; to the continued financial commitment; and allotment of other resources.

This always emotional event honors the accomplishments of racers for their variety of fundraising efforts on behalf of the Racing Against Cancer™ program, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for cancer research, patient services, youth tobacco educational programs, and awareness.

The ceremony began with recognition of facilities like the Thompson International Speedway, Poughkeepsie Speedway, and Londonderry Raceway, who continue to provide a lucrative venue for fundraising with the “Racing Against Cancer™” nights. The Pro All Star Series and Northern Race Tire, who contribute a percentage of the proceeds from each tire sold, were recognized for their continued involvement with the program.

Cal Green, Director of Exhibit Sales, accepted the award on behalf of Speedway Illustrated Magazine. The fundraising season kicked-off for the RAC Program on a high note when over $1,766 was raised at the show display provided courtesy of SpeedwayEXPO. While Darlene and Kevin Ashline of Richmond Raceway were honored during the ceremony, several of the young competitors at his facility took center stage.

Willie Pelotte of Oakland, ME, a 13-year-old Senior Sportsman competitor, established a new single-season individual fundraising record by a Richmond Raceway junior ambassador with over $1,600 in donations. Fellow Richmond Raceway competitors Kayla Ashline, Tommy Stilpen, Dustin Whitcomb, and Jordan Brown were also recognized for their efforts.

Long-time supporters Sugar Hill Speedway returned to the annual awards banquet with pride in their fundraising accomplishments. In total over $4,073 was raised by their Junior Ambassador Program and their 2nd Annual “Endure for a Cure” event. Owners Mark Piekarski and Bob Stanhope could not be in attendance on Saturday; however, former owners Archie and Debbie Archambault, who remain the driving force behind the fundraising events and activities at Sugar Hill Speedway, accepted the appreciation plaque.

The Junior Ambassador Program, established in 1999, has been a successful program enabling youth racers and their families to become involved in a number of fundraising capacities at the Speedway. This year the six ambassadors, Russ & Laura Wood, Luke LaBonte, Austin Brehio, and Dillon Wyman, combined to raise $2,463. The Wood Family of Pelham, NH, raised $630 by selling raffle tickets and spirit bands. Austin Brehio of Hopkinton, NH, sold “lottery squares” during the weekly race programs to earn $500 for R.A.C. Luke Labonte of Litchfield, NH, raised $500 while Brandon Allbee of North Haverhill, NH, and Dillon Wyman of Woodsville, NH, participated in their local town fair to bolster fundraising. The Hot Laps Karting Center hosted the “Endure For A Cure” endurance karting event to contribute $1,610 to the track’s cumulative total.

“We are committed to continuing in our efforts to help keep this wonderful organization active,” said Debbie Archambault. “We cannot think of a better way to honor our friends and loved ones who are fighting cancer. In order to do so, we must all help out in whatever way we can to support critical research, education, advocacy and patient service programs.”

It is an undisputable fact that there is strength in numbers; however, the will of an individual should never be underestimated. The proof of that was evident during Saturday’s festivities as well. Five individuals were recognized for their Silver Level ($250-$999) involvement with the Racing Against Cancer™ Program. B&M Motorsports of Maine, Skip Culbertson of Iowa, Max Zachem, Steve Romjue, and Paul Tuthill each participated in personal fundraising activities in support of the R.A.C. Program.

“In 2006, we had one Gold Level contributor (a $1,000-$4,999 in fundraising), “said Vice President, Steve Fales. “This year we have seven team members that fall within that category.”

Katrina Canney, a 17-year old Late Model competitor at Lee USA Speedway, turned her talents from racing to fundraising to earn $1,152 for the Racing Against Cancer ™ Program. Cortland, NY-based Team LaCross Motorsports helped raise not only funds but much-needed national attention for the R.A.C. Program while they competed in the ARCA RE/MAX Series. The fundraising efforts of Chase Racing, who fields cars in the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, helped to raise $2,500. Fellow Modified competitors, Czarnecki Brothers Racing, who field cars in the True Value Modified Racing Series for ace Ted Christopher, raised $3,500 with their fun and festive pig roast. Bill Doll, a World Karting Association and American Karting Association competitor, has worked tirelessly for several years to gain exposure for the program in the karting ranks. His efforts in 2007 also raised an outstanding $3,692. Avid R.A.C. volunteer and active crew member on Gregory’s AllStar Race Truck team, Dave Crout, has a portion of his paycheck donated directly to R.A.C. each week. With a corporate match from his employer, AETNA, Crout’s total contribution exceeded $1,800 in 2007.

Norm Moriarity, a long term member in good standing, was recognized as the lone Platinum Level member for his contributions of time, energy, and unparalleled commitment to the Racing Against Cancer™ program. Two prestigious specialty awards were presented to conclude the award presentations portion of the ceremony. Gold Level fundraiser, Steve Pukas, a SHS Modified competitor at Sugar Hill Speedway, was honored with the William J. Fales Spirit of Sportsmanship award. Pukas embarked on his own personal crusade to bring exposure to the Racing Against Cancer™ Program. While participating in several racing shows, Relay for Life events, and community programs, Pukas also raised nearly $2,000.

The East Coast Mini Sprint Association received the Jodi B. Blanchette Award as the highest overall fundraisers for the 2007 season. On June 16, the organization hosted a Racing Against Cancer™ Day at Whip City Speedway in Westfield, MA. “It was very dirty, very exciting,” said Blanchette of the ECMSA event, “and very lucrative for the Racing Against Cancer Program.” The event, which raised over $4,200, received support from nearly every race team within the organization including notable fundraisers Kristen Phillips, Mike King, Brayton Round III, and John Marangio. Top fundraiser Kristin Phillips accepted the award on behalf of event coordinator, Robin Montessi, who could not be present at the banquet.

The most compelling portion of the ceremony came when all in attendance realized the fruits of their labor. A check in the amount of $25,000 was presented to Bruce Marshall of the American Cancer Society. “It is easy to get a cynical view of the world,” said Marshall. “This program is the goodness of humanity.” From research to patient programs, the Racing Against Cancer™ Program assists in many aspects of the fight against cancer. Dick Cyr accepted a check in the amount of $7,500 to help with the expenses incurred in the day-to-day operation of David’s House, a haven for terminally ill children receiving treatment through Children's Hospital at Dartmouth at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and their families. “In the 24 years that I have been doing this,” said Cyr emotionally, “the racing community is the most generous and most caring people that I have ever worked with.”

At the banquet, the Racing Against Cancer™ Program announced a new beneficiary for the 2007 season. Foxwoods employee Paul Messina accepted a check in the amount of $2,500 for The Tomorrow Fund. “One day, I met Paul in the hallway,” said Blanchette, a dealer at Foxwoods, “and we started talking about the treatment that his son had received at Hasbro Children’s Hospital. I could tell by the look in his eye, that this charity had been very helpful to him, that is was very important to him. I knew that the Tomorrow Fund was something that the Racing Against Cancer program could get behind.”

The Tomorrow Fund is a non-profit organization that provides daily financial and emotional support to children with cancer and their families who are treated at Hasbro Children's Hospital in Providence, RI. To learn more about the organization log on to www.tomorrowfund.org.

The remaining funds raised during the 2007 season will help the Racing Against Cancer™ Program achieve the goals set forth for the coming year. The continuation of the nationwide marketing campaign will ultimately help enhance awareness programs and membership and donation drives. Additionally, the Racing Against Cancer program will expand in 2008 to include an advocacy program. More information on the “Celebration of Life” event, planned for the summer of 2008, will be forthcoming.

Despite the fact that fundraising was down for the 2007 season, the future looks bright for the Racing Against Cancer program. Ken Davie, Vice President of Table Games for Foxwoods, delivered good news during the ceremony. ™ “Foxwoods is very proud to be the sponsor of this fine program. We have been for years and will continue to be in the future. We have recently reached an agreement to extend our support of the program through the 2008 season.”

With the backing of Foxwoods, the inspired work of Scott Gregory, and the unwavering commitment of the team members, Jodi Blanchette’s dream will remain a reality.

Racing Against Cancer Celebration Nears

Westbrook, CT (Oct 30, 2007)

The Fall season signifies the bittersweet ending to the annual racing season and the Racing Against Cancer™ Team would like to invite the entire racing community to celebrate the 2007 season in grand-style. For the first time, the Racing Against Cancer™ charitable foundation proudly opens the doors to their annual awards banquet to the public. This inspirational ceremony will take place on Saturday, November 10, 2007 from Noon to 4PM in the Tahoe Room in the Grand Pequot Tower at the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, CT.

Unlike traditional banquets the Racing Against Cancer™ Program honors the competitors, not for how many wins they have amassed during the season, but for how their contributions off the race track impacted the greater good. This always emotional event honors the accomplishments of racers for their variety of fundraising efforts on behalf of the Racing Against Cancer™ program and other cancer-related charities.

After the arduous task of competing, the racing community-the drivers, crewmembers and families-are encouraged to treat themselves to a lavish celebration at the beautiful Foxwoods Resort Casino. Guests will be enlivened with tales of determination and stories of survival while enjoying world-class dining.

The Racing Against Cancer™ Team is comprised of a diverse group of over 50 racers located throughout the United States and representing nearly every racing division. They come from all walks of life-from students, to business professionals, to mechanics, to doctors. They hale from all over the country from California to Connecticut. They race in everything from NASCAR touring series to entry level divisions. Despite all their differences, they ALL share a common bond-the love for the sport and a desire to find a cure for cancer.

Guests at the annual awards banquet on November 10, 2007 will meet several of these outstanding competitors including the Chase Family, owners of the Whelen Modified Tour #77, who helped raise money and awareness during the 2007 NASCAR season; Sugar Hill Speedway competitor, Steve Pukas, who hosted his own personal promotional tour during the year; and countless other inspirational teams like the East Coast Mini Sprint Association, Richmond Raceway, and Sugar Hill Speedway competitors.

During the ceremony several special recognition awards will be presented including the Jodi B. Blanchette Fundraising and William J. Fales Spirit of Sportsmanship Awards. These two prestigious honors recognize not only the individuals who help raise the most money for the fight against cancer but also those who inspire others to push themselves toward the ultimate goal of finding a cure for this dreadful disease. Previous winners include Curt and Joan Chase, Amanda Mayberry and Jack Gerbrands, and Archie & Debbie Archambault.

Each team member has their own personal story, their own source of inspiration. The result is a dynamic group that works tirelessly with a variety of fundraising efforts, including financial donations, raffle drives, and special events, to raise a significant amount of money each year to help in the fight against cancer. Since 1997, the cumulative fundraising effort of the Racing Against Cancer™ Program exceeds a half-million dollars.

In 2007, the funds raised by these amazing people will continue to support the American Cancer Society, David’s House, and other worthwhile programs. The Racing Against Cancer ™ Program will also boost our marketing efforts with a national strategy aimed at fostering donor development and new corporate partnerships.

The racing community is encouraged to conclude the 2007 racing season on a high note by attending this special event. The Racing Against Cancer Team hopes racers and fans alike will help celebrate the real triumphs of the season during this moving ceremony on Saturday, November 10, 2007 in the Tahoe Room in the Grand Pequot Tower at the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, CT.

RAC Summer Fundraising Hits the Home Stretch Endure for a Cure Set for Sugar Hill on Sept. 7

Westbrook, CT (Sept 7, 2007)

This summer the Racing Against Cancer™ Team members have been busy racing and raising money for the fight against cancer. The fundraising efforts have involved a variety of events from a wide range of supporters. From R.A.C. Nights to cruise nights to barbeques, the tenacious team members have pulled out all of the stops this summer to help the Racing Against Cancer™ Program continue their support of the American Cancer Society, David's House, and other cancer-related charitable causes.

The highlight of a busy month of June had to be the June 16th event hosted by the East Coast Mini Sprint Association. Through the tireless efforts of Robin Montesi, the ECMSA hosted their first-ever R.A.C. Day at Whip City Speedway in Westfield, MA. Both fans and racers alike were encouraged to make donations while a raffle of various items was held. When the checkered flag flew on race day over $4,200 was raised for the fight against cancer and 20 new "Join the Team Members" were recruited.

One of the many goals of the Racing Against Cancer™ Program over the last two years has been to expand the scope of the program in an effort to reach out to more team members and ultimately strengthen the fight against cancer. The Cortland, NY-based Team LaCross Motorsports helped to do just that. On June 9th thanks to their efforts, the Racing Against Cancer™ Program became involved with the popular ARCA RE/MAX Series.

Motivated by fellow crewmember and cancer survivor, David Wimmer, the team of Shari & Ed Lawrence, Aaron Cross, John & Darlene Cross, Clara Ortalano and Duane Canfield sold 265 tickets to raise over $500 for the "Spend the Day in the Pits" fundraiser. Winning ticket holder Kimberlee Williams of Chittenango, NY, and a guest spent the weekend in the pit area with the Team LaCross crew as they competed in the ARCA RE/MAX Series Pocono 200 at Pocono Raceway.

As is always the case, with the influx of racing fans in the area, the NEXTEL Cup event at New Hampshire International Speedway (NHIS) provided an excellent opportunity to raise money for the fight against cancer. The R.A.C. Team participated in the festivities that were held in conjunction with the event including the annual "Race Fever" event held in Concord, NH June 28 as well as the Governor's Breakfast held at the Speedway. This year for the breakfast held on June 29th, Steve Pukas proudly display his Sugar Hill Modified. That evening the Racing Against Cancer™ Program hosted the Jerry Nadeau Dinner and Monte Carlo Night. The R.A.C. members would like to take this opportunity to thank Jerry Nadeau for his support of the program.

Other fundraisers during the month included an R.A.C. Night at Thompson International Speedway on June 21st in conjunction with the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour event while the Racing Against Cancer™ team was also represented by Steve Pukas at two "Relay for Life" events. Pukas hosted the first promotional appearance on June 22 was at Westerly High School Westerly, RI, and the other on June 30-July 1 at the Norwich Free Academy in Norwich, CT.

On June 23, 17-year old Lee USA Speedway Late Model competitor Katrina Canney hosted a picnic, the Sugar Shack Benefit, in Barrington, NH, that raised $500 for the beneficiaries of the Racing Against Cancer™ Program. Guests at the picnic enjoyed good food and spirited games of wiffle ball and volleyball.  For the younger supporters in attendance, Canney crafted a fun-filled piñata in the image of her Late Model that was also on display at the event.

On July 2, the Racing Against Cancer™ Team set up a display during a 3-hour vintage and custom car cruise night at Ocean Beach in New London, CT, to earn a quick $350 for the various programs supported by the RAC Team. Londonderry Raceway in Londonderry, NH, generously hosted their annual RAC Night on July 15th.

Earlier this month the Racing Against Cancer™ Team was once again represented during the August 4-5 "Relay for Life" event held at Stonington High School in Stonington, CT. Food and fun where the order of business on August 11th at the Czarnecki Brothers Racing Pig Roast at the West Springfield Elks Club in West Springfield, MA. Musical entertainment, games, and great food helped the Czarnecki Brothers raise $3,500 in much-needed funds for the Racing Against Cancer™ Program.

On the heels of a very successful R.A.C. Night that netted over $2,000, the Sugar Hill Speedway in Weare, NH, one of the staunchest supporters of the Racing Against Cancer™ Program, is gearing up for their annual "Endure for the Cure" endurance go-kart race. The very lucrative fundraiser is set for September 7.

The racing season winds down with a number of promotional events. Be sure to check out the promotional calendar on the charity's official website. To learn how you can become a team member or to host your own R.A.C. event log on to the Racing Against Cancer website at www.racingagainstcancer.com.

The Racing Against Cancer™ program is a federally recognized 501(C)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the raising of funds for cancer research, patient services, youth tobacco educational programs, and awareness.

Jerry Nadeau Headlines RAC Monte Carlo Night in June Exclusive Tony Stewart Memorabilia Featured in Silent Auction

Westbrook, CT (June 1, 2007)

This week the Racing Against Cancer™ Team announced that it would host the 2007 Jerry Nadeau Racing Against Cancer™ Dinner and Monte Carlo Night. The charity event will be held on Friday, June 29, 2007 at the Courtyard Marriott in Concord, NH located at 70 Constitution Avenue to coincide with the Nextel Cup event at New Hampshire International Speedway. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Racing Against Cancer™ Program and David’s House, a non-profit haven for providing lodging to children, being treated at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, and their families.

Former Nextel Cup competitor and New England native, Jerry Nadeau will headline the event that will be held in honor of his late father Gerard Nadeau. In March, after a short but valiant battle, the elder Nadeau succumbed to Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer.

The fundraising event will feature a reception beginning at 5 PM with photo opportunities with Jerry Nadeau and several Whelen Modified Tour drivers followed by an All-You-Can-Eat Buffet. Dinner will be served from 6:00PM-7:30PM. The casino-type gaming will from run from 7:30PM-11:30PM. A variety of prizes will be awarded to table-game winners.

“You can never truly understand what cancer can do until you experience it personally,” said Nadeau. “We never thought it would happen to us and we never thought we would lose (our father).”

Nadeau plans to make something positive of the personal struggles that he and his family have endured by making a difference in the fight against cancer. And doing so in loving tribute to his father-the man he admired and emulated.

Gerard Joseph Nadeau a.k.a. 'Jerry' TROUTMAN (1944-2007) was his son’s every day hero with a lifetime of love and understanding. He was also his racing hero. Jerry, Jr. inherited his passion for racing from his father, who ran Modifieds every Saturday night at the Danbury Race Arena in Danbury, CT until its close. Jerry Jr. had his first go-kart before he turned five years old.

Jerry’s most notable accomplishment is his NEXTEL Cup victory in the 2000 NAPA 500 season finale at Atlanta Motor Speedway for Hendrick Motorsports. Before moving to stock car racing, Nadeau found success in the open-wheel and road course arenas winning international acclaim for his victories around the world. In the 90’s, with the blessing of his family, Nadeau moved to North Carolina to pursue his dream of NASCAR racing. His first Cup start came in 1997 driving for Richard Jackson.

A devastating injury in 2004 has sidelined Nadeau from Cup competition in recent years; however, he has remained an active part of the racing community. Last season, he helped David Gilliland score his first-ever Busch Series win. Today he is back behind the wheel, driving competitive go-karts.

On June 1-3, Nadeau will participate in the 24 Hours of Liera, Portugal for EnduranceKarting.com’s Team USA. In previous years, Team USA finished in positions two and three. In 2007, Nadeau hopes to do them one better and bring home the victory.

On June 29th, he hopes to earn a victory for the Racing Against Cancer™ Team as well.

“My Dad was never a poker guy,” said Nadeau, “but I certainly am. It will be a good time and I am excited about it. I am looking forward to playing and doing well, not only in the tournament, but in fundraising.”

Donations of $50 include dinner and gaming admittance. Children’s dinner (only) tickets are also available for $30. All proceeds benefit the Racing Against Cancer™ Program. A few dinner tickets are still available. Admission to the Monte Carlo Casino event will be available the day of the event for a $20 donation. Dinner and event tickets may be purchased online at www.racingagainstcancer.com. Online ticket orders will be confirmed via email and be left at will-call at the entrance of the event.

Throughout the evening, RAC will host a silent auction and raffle. Signature items include body panels off the Chase Racing Modified driven by two-time NEXTEL Cup champion Tony Stewart at NHIS last July and the authentic fire suit worn by Stewart in the event. One lucky winner will take home the fire suit during the evening.

“I know (Dad) will be playing alongside of me. I hope we do well, raise a lot of money and make a difference in this fight.”

The Racing Against Cancer™ program is a federally recognized 501(C)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the raising of funds for cancer research, patient services, youth tobacco educational programs, and awareness.

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