Racing 2 Save Lives, an organization that brings together motorcyclists to help raise funds for children’s charities, concluded its annual event at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah, on July 3-5 by donating net proceeds of $17,016 to charity.
Nearly 200 riders took part in the three-day event, during which, in exchange for a minimum donation, they were able to ride their bikes on MMP’s world-renowned racetracks, without the pressure of competition. The $17,016 raised by these generous riders was donated to charities including the Make-A-Wish Foundations of Utah and Colorado, Larry H. Miller Charities and Here’s Life Inner City Denver.
“Over the past six years, R2SL has donated some $263,000 to children’s charities,” said R2SL President and Executive Director Ralph Forsythe. “In view of these trying economic times, we’re particularly grateful to every participant, volunteer and sponsor for their generosity.”
R2SL Vice President Sheila Paul noted that the 2009 event added to the organization’s stellar reputation for safety. “We had only a few minor incidents on the track that resulted in no significant rider injuries,” she remarked. “The credit goes to our all-volunteer crew of experienced rider coaches, who once again helped first-time track-day riders and expert racers alike get the most out of our R2SL event.”
Even non-riders were able to sample the thrill of riding on the track, thanks to two-up rides offered by R2SL Board Member Scott Rybarik and instructors Shane Turpin and Mark Schellinger from the Miller-based Yamaha Champions Riding School. YCRS also offered day-long advanced riding skills seminars during the event, led by Turpin and Schellinger, with the proceeds being donated to R2SL.
“We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the contributions of nine-year-old Andrew Swallow and his seven-year-old sister, Jenna,” Forsythe added. “They set up a lemonade stand in the paddock and donated a significant portion of their profits – $16 – to R2SL.” Andrew and Jenna are the children of Utah Sportbike Rentals owner Chris Swallow.
R2SL gratefully acknowledges the contributions of its sponsors, including Pirelli, Leo Vince, Yamaha Champions Riding School, Utah Sportbike Rentals, Hilton Salt Lake City Airport, CT Racing, Fast Line Race Tire and Traction Zone; along with a special thank-you to MMP’s staff and management for their support.
R2SL organizers are already planning for the 2010 event. For more information on participating or volunteering, visit R2SL’s web site at www.racing2savelives.org or call 303-767-RACE.
Racing 2 Save Lives is a 501(c)3 charity that operates unique track-day events for motorcyclists, with proceeds donated to deserving children’s charities in the communities where R2SL takes place. Since its founding in 2004, R2SL has donated $263,000 to charity.