2003 Racing Against Cancer Press Releases

R.A.C.™ Honors Supporters in a Big Way

Westbrook, CT (December 20, 2003)

The biggest news out of the 7th Annual Racing Against Cancer™ banquet on Friday, December 12, 2003 was the fundraising total. After a very slow start to the season, a surge in the last few months earned the R.A.C. Program yet another new fundraising record. "This was a surprising year for Racing Against Cancer™ " said founder Jon Blanchette. "With washout after washout of race dates and fundraising opportunities cancelled, we doubted we would ever make it. At the halfway point of the season we were 50% behind in donations."

Despite a tough start, the dedicated supporters of the Racing Against Cancer™ Program never gave up. In fact, they rallied. R.A.C. has never failed to set a new fundraising effort and with the help of the great supporters the same held true in 2003. "Fundraising picked up toward the end of the season," continued Blanchette, "and a few people came through in a big way. This year over $78,000 was raised for the fight against cancer." This year's tally brings the cumulative fundraising total to $331,261.55.

"I am amazed at the total that this program has raised," said Robert DeSalvio, Executive Vice President of Casino Marketing at Foxwoods Resort Casino. The numbers of the Racing Against Cancer™ Program, in large part, have been facilitated by the participation of the Foxwoods Resort Casino. It was the initial support of DeSalvio and the Foxwoods Resort Casino that was instrumental in the formative years and their continued collaboration that has helped to fuel the success and longevity of the program.

"It is neat to have been able to watch this grow," said DeSalvio, "and it is gratifying to know that the money goes to all the right causes." As in years past, beneficiaries of the funds raised by the Racing Against Cancer™ Program will include the American Cancer Society, David's House, the R.A.C. Youth Tobacco Awareness Program, and the Exeter Hospital Cancer Wing. A check was presented to the American Cancer Society during Friday's ceremony. Dick Cyr, founder of David's House, received over $16,000 and the Exeter Hospital will receive $1,500 as well.

"I realize the work, dedication, and time expanded to get that much money," continued DeSalvio. "On behalf of Foxwoods, we thank all the volunteers that make this happen." Many of those dedicated volunteers were in attendance at Foxwoods' Acapulco Room on Friday. First to be honored was the Northeastern Midget Association and series sponsor Wirtgen America. Steve Grant, 2003 Club President, was on hand to help celebrate the fundraising achievement of the entire club. Over $5,000 was raised by the dedicated teams and supporters of the Northeastern Midget Association presented by Wirtgen America.

One of those groups that "came through in a big way" was the Senior Tour Auto Racers (STAR). The club hosted the Bentley Warren Testimonial Dinner to pay tribute to one of New England's most successful and most colorful racing personalities. A unique piece of memorabilia was auctioned as part of the celebration. A helmet was autographed by 68 individuals who were instrumental in Bentley's career including 11 New England Hall of Famers and many International Supermodified Association drivers. Other notable signers were Dick Berggren, Bones Bourcier, Russ Conway, Val LeSieur, Ken Schrader, Bobby Seymour, and Tony Stewart.

"When we decided to host this raffle, it was an easy choice to select the Racing Against Cancer™ Team as the beneficiary," continued Pettengil. The bidding began at $300 and quickly moved into four figures having been fueled by a mystery bidder. The winning bid, which came from none other than Paul Newman, was $1,800. Newman was more interested in raising money for R.A.C. then taking home the top prize, so he donated the helmet back to STAR. The win reverted to under bidders, Mr. & Mrs. Eddie Shea, owners of Shea Concrete and longtime ISMA supporter. The Sheas decided to up their bid to match the initial winning mark. A total of $3,600 was raised for Racing Against Cancer™ thanks to the Senior Tour Auto Racers and the generosity of the bidders at the Bentley Warren Testimonial Dinner.

Not to be outdone by the open-wheel contingent, the members of the Busch North Series, NASCAR Touring, specifically the past champions as well as owners GRIZCO Racing and sponsor Burnham Boilers, played a major role in 2003 fundraising. The last six Busch North Series champions participated in the 2nd Annual Casino Night aboard the Mount Washington Cruise ship in September. Between the gaming proceeds from that cruise, fundraising done by the Burnham Corporation at various hospitality events, and the contributions of GRIZCO Racing, a check in the amount of $16,297 was made to David's House, a haven for families of terminally ill children near the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, founded in loving memory of a courageous young boy named David.

"I have no clue where you wonderful people come from," said David's House founder Dick Cyr as he addressed the crowd of supporters, "but you just keeping coming." Because they do Cyr and his organization have been able to host over 8,000 families from around the world. Information on the poignant and rich history of the legacy of David Cyr and the house that bears his name visit www.davids-house.org. An emotional Cyr continued by asking, "How do you say thank you? Those two words don't amount to a hill of beans."

The thank yous continued when the Junior Ambassadors of the Sugar Hill Speedway were recognized for their tremendous efforts in 2003. Eli Lussier represented the group of four young men that also includes Josh Currier, Frank Fichera, and Jacob Dore, who were selected by track owners Archie and Debbie Archambault for their racing ability and their conduct at the track and in the community. This small group through a variety of fundraisers has raised thousands of dollars.

Sean Caisse, a former Junior Ambassador who is all grown up, has stayed committed to the R.A.C. since his days at Sugar Hill Speedway. On Friday Sean, his sister Danielle and parents Gisele and Jim, were honored for another years of service to the Racing Against Cancer™ Program. The Caisses began their support of the program back in 1998 and have continued it as the talented young driver made his way up the ranks at Lee USA Speedway. This year Sean and the family continued their dedication to R.A.C. as one of the top teams in NEMA. They plan to take the Program with them when Sean moves on to a major NASCAR Touring series in 2004. "Sean Caisse is going places and thankfully he is taking the Racing Against Cancer™ Team with him," said R.A.C. Director of Income Development Steve Fales, who has taken Sean on as his protégé over the last year. Caisse was recently awarded the 2003 Design 500 Racewear National Midget Rookie of the Year Award.

Like Caisse, many up and coming drivers have chosen to support the Racing Against Cancer™ Program. In 2003, Andy Seuss a young 350 Supermodified driver from Star Speedway joined the program. This season he single-handedly raised over $2,000. Fellow Star Speedway driver, Street Stocker Chris Sullivan again was celebrated for his efforts on behalf of the program. In recognition of his endeavors the Exeter Hospital will receive a contribution. Another driver acknowledged for his work for the program was Bill Doll, an active adult competitor with the World Karting Association (WKA). Not only does Bill help procure donations but he works tirelessly to spread the word about the R.A.C. Program all over the country. Bill is currently developing new ideas that the Racing Against Cancer™ Program undoubtedly will benefit from for years to come.

The local tracks where these competitors race week in and week out have played an integral part in the fundraising efforts of the Racing Against Cancer™ Program. From invitations to special events, to hosting R.A.C. Nights, to lucrative independent fundraisers, racetracks like Canaan Speedway, Thompson International Speedway, Sugar Hill Speedway, White Mountain Motorsports Park, and Star Speedway help make fundraising records a reality each season.

A number of specialty awards were presented on Friday afternoon as well. The second Annual Jodi B. Blanchette Award for Outstanding Achievement in Fundraising was presented to Peg & Steve Griswold of GRIZCO Racing and the Burnham Corporation for their combined fundraising total of over $14,000, all of which is going to David's House. The Outstanding Achievement in Fundraising Award is named after named after Jon Blanchette's wife, Jodi, the inspiration for the Racing Against Cancer™ Program, who died of cancer in 1994.

Daisy Lilley of Burnham Corporation was quick to recognize the support of the Burnham customers as she accepted the coveted award. "It is really the Burnham customers who are raising the money." Burnham facilitates the fundraising by incorporating the Racing Against Cancer™ Program into all of their hospitality events during the season. The third Annual William J. Fales Spirit of Sportsmanship Award was bestowed on Archie and Debbie Archambault of Sugar Hill Speedway. They are honored for their multi-level approach to fundraising and their care and concern for all those involved with the program at their top-notch facility.

Norm Moriarty was honored with the Outstanding Volunteer Award. Norm epitomizes the expression chief cook and bottle washer. He not only works at nearly every R.A.C. event, often with little or no sleep, but he cooks for the entire R.A.C. race team. The list of what Norm does goes on and on and so will the appreciation of Norm by everyone associated with the Racing Against Cancer™ Program.

Prior to the event, R.A.C. Director of Operations, Scott Gregory spoke of the importance of the banquet because it puts tangible results on the efforts of the entire season. "This is always a great day for all of us," said Gregory. "I think what we do all season really hits home during the banquet when we hear the astounding numbers and learn what kind of impact our hard work can have on research and patient programs."

Bruce Marshall, the New England representative of the American Cancer Society, helped to put things into perspective for all the great supporters and volunteers of the Racing Against Cancer™ Program. "The good news is that we are at a historic threshold," said Marshall."All of the cumulative research translates to lives saved. Today there are 9-million cancer survivors in the United States. Know that your dollars are truly affecting lives." Marshall collected a check for $20,000 to continue with research and patient programs conducted by the American Cancer Society."On half of the American Cancer Society and the patients that we service,"said Marshall thoughtfully, "we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continued support."

That support will undoubtedly continue. Marshall quoted some startling statistics that will only fuel the resolve of the members of the Racing Against Cancer™ Team. "One out of two men and one out of three women will get a cancer diagnosis in their lives." Marshall closed by urging everyone to take advantage of the screening technologies that are available. "Early detection is vitally important. In this time of giving, give yourself and your families the gift of screening."

As always, the Racing Against Cancer™ banquet was an emotional event with moving stories that both sadden and motivate. Everyone at the R.A.C. banquet has a personal reason for their involvement but there is a common goal and everyone works tirelessly in their own way to keep the funds rolling in for the fight against cancer. "R.A.C. overcame a lot of hurdles this year but still managed to come out on top," said Blanchette. That fact proves the metal of the Racing Against Cancer™ Program and the team members.

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.

NCTS COMPETITOR COMES HOME FOR A CAUSE;
MacDonald to Campaign at NHIS for Racing Against Cancer™

Westbrook, CT (September 6, 2003)

Every time the Randy MacDonald of Thomasville, NC gets behind the wheel of his NASCAR Craftsman Truck, he has does so with purpose. Generally that goal is a top finish. At New Hampshire International Speedway next weekend, MacDonald’s motivation will be intensified.

Recently, the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, CT announced a one-race deal with MacDonald in a fundraising effort to support the Racing Against Cancer™ Program. Foxwoods will make a donation directly to the American Cancer Society in the name of MacDonald and the Racing Against Cancer™ Program in the equivalent of MacDonald’s winnings in the New Hampshire 200. Foxwoods ran a similar program in 1999 with Brad Leighton and the GRIZCO Racing team that helped to raise over $18,500. (Leighton won the event.)

This agreement has special meaning for MacDonald, whose father Marrill “Doc” MacDonald is battling cancer. “I’m just trying to do everything a son needs to do,” said MacDonald. “If I can help to raise some money for the fight against cancer, that is just one more thing I can do for my father.”

Strong in his faith, Randy MacDonald will make the start on Saturday for his father and for all those that are battling cancer. “We are proud to be affiliated with Randy and the entire MacDonald family,” said R.A.C. Director of Operations, Scott Gregory. “They are committed to racing and totally devoted to one another. It is people like the MacDonald’s that are the driving force behind the Racing Against Cancer™ Program.”

MacDonald, a Truck Series regular, has made 67 career starts with his best finish coming in 2000 in the Daytona 250. Randy and his sister Teri made history when they became the first brother sister team to compete in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (4 starts). In 1993, MacDonald won the Rookie-of-the-Year title in the American Speed Association. In addition, MacDonald has 5 Winston Cup starts to his credit.

Involvement with a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series team provides a number of significant benefits to the Racing Against Cancer™ Program including national television coverage.

“Through this partnership with Randy, the American Cancer Society and the Racing Against Cancer™ Program stands to earn in the area of $10,000 for the fight against cancer,” said R.A.C. Director of Operations, Scott Gregory. This project has major significance during a season where the economic climate has made fundraising more difficult.

It is most fitting that this special opportunity would come at New Hampshire International Speedway, as this is a home coming of sorts for Randy MacDonald. “If I were to call one track home, it would be Loudon,” said MacDonald, whose roots run deep in the northeast. The Oshawa, Ontario, Canada native got his start in the American Canadian Tour and earned NASCAR North Rookie of the Year honors in 1985.

NHIS has a special place for the MacDonald’s. It was where Randy made his first Winston Cup start and it is where he met his wife Gina (when it was still Bryar Motorsports Park). It took 17 years of chasing a dream but in 1996 at New Hampshire International Speedway, with his father proudly beside him, Randy MacDonald made his first start in the Winston Cup Series competition. “My dad understood my dream and he did everything he could to make that dream a reality. “He has always played a critical role in my racing career,” continued MacDonald with admiration evident in his voice, “actually without his support there would be no racing career.”

“Doc” has done a bit of everything at the race shop, including working as the head of the engine department. After an injury suffered in an accident in the season-opener at Daytona sidelined Randy for the entire 2001 season, it was his father along with his mother Pat who stepped in.

“Mom and Dad took over running the team so that the business could survive.”

MacDonald is quick to credit his father for his success in life as well as in racing. “My father has been a tremendous role model. He is a faithful husband, which has helped to make my marriage stronger, and he is a wonderful grandfather.” Randy and his wife Gina, have two children Jeni, age 9 and Mackenzie, age 8.

Marrill “Doc” MacDonald is truly inspiration, not just to his own family but also to anyone who is dealing with the harsh reality of cancer. Doc survived colon cancer six years ago only to be re-diagnosed with lung cancer last year. In December, a portion of his lung was removed and he is currently undergoing chemotherapy. Yet each day, strong in his faith, he counts his blessings.

“Each day my Dad wakes up and thanks the Lord for a new day,” said Randy. “He trusts that it will work out.” Much like that start at New Hampshire in 1996, the race this weekend may just play an even more defining role for the MacDonald family.

Sugar Hill Speedway's R.A.C.™ Night A Success

Weare, NH (August 3, 2003)

Saturday night, Sugar Hill Speedway hosted it’s annual "Racing Against Cancer™ Night". With a full evening of racing and lots of special things to do, the whole night was geared up to raise money for the Racing Against Cancer™ Team, the American Cancer Society, and David’s House. Eleven divisions took to the track providing an abundance of racing suspense throughout the evening.

Over three thousand dollars was presented to the team leaders during intermission. Bobby Seuss made a substantial contribution on behalf of ambassador, Andy Seuss, who has recently stepped up into a 350 Super Modified and could not be present for the evening’s festivities. SHS Junior Ambassadors - Frank Fichera, Jr. of Pelham, Jacob Dore of Sanford, ME, and Eli Lussier of Northfield, NH also turned in monies raised from candy and raffle sales and a mountain of can tabs which will be turned into cash for the Dana Farber Institute. Several other anonymous donations were submitted from Sugar Hill families and friends. With the Racing Against Cancer™ Team’s simulator on hand for the night, many drivers tried their luck for the best time of the evening and to take the opportunity to sharpen their driving skills before they hit the track while contributing to the cause.

Sugar Hill Speedway extends a sincere thanks to Scott Gregory, Jon Blanchette, Norm Moriarty, and Steve Fales from the Racing Against Cancer™ Team who were present for the event for their commitment to the Team and their perseverance and continued efforts to raise funds for the fight against cancer.

R.A.C.™ Night At Wall Promises Something for Everyone

Westbrook, CT (June 7, 2003)

Every Saturday night the Wall Township Speedway provides race fans with an exciting night of NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series action. On June 14, 2003 there is something even more special on the agenda. An entire night of family fun has been planned for the first-ever Racing Against Cancer ™ Night. Thanks to the efforts of Modified division competitor Kristen McKnight of Clinton, CT and her owner Jamie Colucci of North Plainfield, NJ, Wall Township Speedway has invited the Racing Against Cancer ™ Team to be part of the night's festivities.

This is the first time that the New England based charity has been in attendance at the New Jersey facility. The hope is to extend the audience of the Racing Against Cancer™ Program while raising funds for the fight against cancer; most notably the R.A.C. Youth Tobacco Awareness Program.

Fans are asked to show their support in a number of ways. Tickets will be on sale for the year-long R.A.C. raffle that features great prizes including a trip for two to the 2004 Coca Cola 600 at Lowe's Motor Speedway, an R.A.C. replica go-kart and a collection of Elliott Sadler autographed memorabilia courtesy of M&M/Mars. For instant gratification, fans can try their luck with the R.A.C. prize wheel, where they can win t-shirts, playing cards, etc. A full line of R.A.C. apparel will be on sale as well.

The Colucci Motorsports team has gone all out in an effort to make this a standing room only event and a huge triumph for the Racing Against Cancer ™ Program. Miss Motorsports, Jennifer Weaver has agreed to be part of the festivities. She will be making an appearance on behalf of Colucci Motorsports and R.A.C. from 4PM to 6PM. In addition, the revolutionary Segway Human Transporter, which has received a tremendous amount of media attention over the last several months, will be on display throughout the evening. The Segway HT is a first self-balancing, two-wheeled electric-powered personal transportation machine. The machine can reach a max speed of 12.5 MPH and has a maximum payload of 250 lbs.

For a little more fast-paced entertainment there is a full night of NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series action scheduled for Racing Against Cancer ™ Night beginning at 6PM. For more information on the racing card visit www.wallspeedway.com. The R.A.C. Team will be well represented on the track with Kristin McKnight competing in the 53 lap Hall of Fame Modified event and fellow R.A.C. teammate Scott Gregory vying for the win in the 50-lap All Star Truck Series event.

Kristin McKnight joined the R.A.C. Team back at Racearama in March, joining over 50 other New England race teams that support the program. McKnight, a Criminal Justice major at Central Connecticut State University, is an excellent addition to the program. She brings a history of Motorsports excellence with her and the promise of much more to come.

Her impressive credentials include 75 feature wins and four go-kart track championships. In 2001 she made history by becoming the first female to win the American Three Quarter Midget Racing Association (ATQMRA) "Rookie of the Year" honor. She put her name back in the record books in 2002 by becoming the first female to win a ATQMRA feature en route to a second place finish in the championship point standings.

This season McKnight has made the step up to the mighty Modified division. She has an aggressive schedule planned for the 2003 season that includes competing full-time in the Modified division at Wall in pursuit of another Rookie of the Year title. McKnight will carry the R.A.C. colors on the Featherlite Modified Series, NASCAR Touring this season where she hopes to run at Wall, Stafford, Waterford, and Thompson.

Fans can join McKnight and over 50 other race teams that make up the Racing Against Cancer ™ Team in an active role in the fight against cancer by "Joining the Team". The annual membership to the Racing Against Cancer ™ Team is only $35 and offers members a number of great perks. Proceeds from the "Join the Team" Program go to benefit a number of worthy causes including the R.A.C. Youth Tobacco Awareness Program, the American Cancer Society, and David's House.

Racing Against Cancer ™ Night at Wall Township Speedway is only one of many fun and exciting fundraisers planned this season. On Wednesday, July 16, 2003, just prior to the first Winston Cup event at New Hampshire International Speedway, the Mount Washington Cruise ship will be open to the friends of R.A.C. for the 2nd Annual Racing Against Cancer™ Casino Night presented by Foxwoods Resort Casino. For more information on this and any R.A.C. events and programs visit www.racingagainstcancer.com or call (860) 388-3444.

R.A.C.™ Plans On Cruising to 2003 Goal Busch North Drivers
Champion the Cause

Westbrook, CT (April 27, 2003)

It is a sure bet that the Racing Against Cancer™ Team will put every effort into making this season even more successful than the last. In 2002, the members joined together to raise over $74,000 for the fight against cancer. During the 2003 season the R.A.C. Team will once again band together as they strive to exceed their earlier tally.

A number of fundraising events will be held during the season, including several that have proven to be fruitful in the past. The "Join the Team" Program will return in '03 as will the White Mountain Motorsports Park Softball Tournament. On Wednesday, July 16, 2003, just prior to the first Winston Cup event at New Hampshire International Speedway, the Mount Washington Cruise ship will be open to the friends of R.A.C. for the 2nd Annual Racing Against Cancer™ Casino Night presented by Foxwoods Resort Casino.

The cruise on New Hampshire's Lake Winnipesaukee will sail from 7PM-11PM (boarding begins at approximately 6:30 PM) with an entire evening of activities planned. A $50 donation puts race fans on board the Mount Washington for a full night of fun including gaming, autograph sessions, raffles and a buffet dinner. In addition to the traditional table games, patrons will be invited to try their luck in a raffle featuring, among other great prizes, Winston Cup and Busch North autographed memorabilia and a pair of overnight stays at Foxwoods including gourmet meals.

All gaming proceeds at the 2nd Annual R.A.C. Casino Night presented by Foxwoods Resort Casino will go to David's House, a haven for families of children receiving treatment at the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH. Dick & Gerry Cyr, inspired by their young son David, who died of acute lymphocytic leukemia in 1984, created David's House so that parents and children alike would have a quality home-like atmosphere during their time of need.

Reigning champion Andy Santerre will be in attendance that evening joining an impressive roster of Busch North drivers that features each of the Series champions since 1995 including, Mike Olsen ('01), Brad Leighton ('00, '99), Mike Stefanik ('98 & '97), Dave Dion ('96) and Kelly Moore ('95). Each of the drivers will be available to sign autographs during the night's festivities.

Tickets for the 2nd Annual R.A.C. Casino Night presented by Foxwoods Resort Casino may be obtained by sending a check or money order to Racing Against Cancer™ P.O. Box 1092, Westbrook, CT 06498. Those wishing to pay by credit card may purchase tickets on-line at the R.A.C. website, www.racingagainstcancer.com. Interested parties are urged to act quickly as occupancy is limited. Questions regarding Casino Night should be directed to the Racing Against Cancer™ office at (860) 388-3444.

To learn more about the Racing Against Cancer™ Program, visit www.racingagainstcancer.com. Information on the poignant and rich history of the legacy of a young boy named David and the house that bears his name visit www.davids-house.org.

R.A.C.™ Makes Inroads at Racearama

Westbrook, CT (March 3, 2003)

The Racing Against Cancer ™ Program commenced it's seventh year in the fight against cancer by participating in last weekend's Racearama in West Springfield, MA. The Team was out in full-force with representation at both the team and track level. Thompson, Seekonk, Star, Sugar Hill, Canaan and Claremont Speedways along with White Mountain Motorsports Park all showed their support of the program. Drivers in attendance included Sean Caisse, Bobby Webber, Jr., Bobby Santos III, Frank Fichera III, and newcomer, SK Modified competitor, Kristin McKnight, amongst others.

A weekend full of fundraising activity garnered a grand total of $2,000 in donations. The Racing Against Cancer ™ display was the site for raffle ticket and apparel sales, while White Mountain Motorsports Park generated donations with the R.A.C. Prize wheel. A $1 donation allowed attendees to spin for a number of great prizes including t-shirts, playing cards, etc. The M&M/Mars R.A.C. Youth Tobacco Awareness simulator debuted with Green, the first lady of chocolate candies, greeting contributors as they entered the Winston Cup #36 for a few laps of simulated racing.

But more important than the financial gain was the host of new relationships that were forged during the weekend that have the potential to substantially increase the funds raised this season. Racing Against Cancer ™ was named as the official charity of the Allison Legacy Series-NE Region and Accord Speedway. The Featherlite Modified Series, NASCAR Touring team headed by NEAR Hall of Famer, Bob Polverari has also joined the ranks for 2003.

All of the pieces are in place for yet another tremendously successful year in the fight against cancer for the Racing Against Cancer™ Team. The 2003 season officially kicks off on April 5-6, 2003 at Thompson International Speedway. Check out the complete R.A.C. 2003 appearance schedule along with a listing of R.A.C. Team members and much, much more by visiting www.racingagainstcancer.com.

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