VIRginia International Raceway’s Annual Charity Event Raises $33,000 for the Danville Salvation Army
VIRginia International Raceway, one of North America’s top road courses, is thrilled to announce this year’s Holiday Laps charity event raised an outstanding $33,000 to directly benefit the Danville Salvation Army this holiday season. The annual fundraising event allows participants to safely put their personal cars to the test on VIR’s 3.27-mile Full Course, which features 17 turns and 130 feet of elevation change, for a donation of just $25.
The $33,000 raised will support the local Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program that puts new clothes and toys under the tree for more than 560 children who would otherwise have to go without Christmas gifts. Anonymous donors adopt the kids, or “angels,” in an expanding tradition to give back and make the season brighter throughout the community. Although so many community members provide Angel Tree gifts, the organization often has more children to serve than donors, making additional contributions like the Holiday Laps fundraising total that much more important.
“We’re incredibly humbled that VIR hosts this event each year,” said Captain Ray Jackson, corps officer of the Danville Salvation Army. “There are unfortunately always angels that end up without a specific donor, and the funds from VIR will help us be able to provide for those needs, making sure every child in our area has a bright Christmas. We’re so thankful for this amazing donation that will help so many kids, and for all VIR and the local community does to support our organization.”
Event participants could also take a thrilling “hot lap” ride around the historic track with a professional driver for just $15, including Richard Petty’s grandson, Thad Moffit as Petty’s Garage, Richard Petty’s high-performance speed shop, also took part in the event.
“There’s no better way to celebrate the season than raising money for deserving kids with a little fun out on the track,” said Connie Nyholm, owner and CEO of VIR. “It’s amazing to see our road course that’s usually the host of fierce competition filled with so many generous people having a blast and making a difference in our community. It is our honor to hold this event each year and be part of making Christmas an unforgettable holiday for Danville families.”
The 2017 Holiday Laps event took place Friday, Dec. 1 and was co-hosted by 102.5 WBTM and 103.3 WAKG. To learn more about VIR and its 2018 event schedule, visit www.virnow.com.