From a press release issued by California Speedway:

“Race for Relief” – Day One

Southern California residents came from throughout the region to join the “Race for Relief” at California Speedway on Saturday to collect more than $14,000 as well as filling to capacity two 24-ft. Penske Trucks and three Toyota Tundras full of items for fire victims.

“The first day was a tremendous success,” Bill Miller, president of California Speedway, said. “The outpouring of generosity from so many people made this a great day. I personally had the opportunity to talk to many individuals and families who donated items and/or money today who have been touched by the tragedy of this fire. They can’t stop thinking about so many families displaced and they just want to help.”

From as far as Glendale and Brea individuals came to pitch-in and give to the Southern California Fire Disaster Relief Fund. Race fans came in legions to give what ever they could to those affected by the devastating wildfires.

“I’m also very thankful to all the great race fans who showed up today,” Miller continued. “I talked to some people who had tickets for the races that were scheduled for this weekend here and they not only committed to donating their ticket purchase to the Red Cross but also came here to drop off blankets, clothes and food. We got off to a great start today.”

Blankets, jackets, toys and diapers were loaded into three Toyota Tundras to take quick trips to the San Bernardino Airport Shelter for fire evacuees. The urgency for blankets and jackets increased with cold and rainy weather moving into the area. Other items, such as food, clothes and furniture, were loaded in the Penske Trucks with one making a drop to the Salvation Army today and the other going first thing Sunday morning.

The final day of the “Race for Relief” is Sunday, November 2, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. The monetary contributions will continue through mid-November as many speedway sponsors have made financial commitments and the deadline for speedway ticket holders to donate the purchase price of their ticket from the King Taco 200 and King Taco 500 is November 14.

For more information on the “Race for Relief” please visit www.californiaspeedway.com. For more information on the Southern California Fire Disaster Relief Fund and the American Red Cross visit their website at www.crossnet.org.