IMS Teaming With Red Cross For Haitian Earthquake Relief

INDIANAPOLIS ­ The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is teaming with the American Red Cross through an online auction and Brickyard Authentics retail store price reduction to encourage race fans to contribute to relief efforts for Haitian earthquake victims.

American Red Cross Credit: American Red Cross

Fans can help through online auction, Brickyard Authentics retail store offers

Thousands were killed and injured when a massive earthquake struck Jan. 12 near Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The catastrophic damage destroyed the infrastructure of the capital of the Caribbean island nation, creating an urgent need for funds for water, food, medical services and temporary shelter.

"Our hearts go out to every resident of Haiti and the family members living around the world who are mourning the loss of loved ones," said Mari Hulman George, chairman of the Board of Directors, Indianapolis Motor Speedway. "I encourage everyone in the racing community ­ fans, teams, sponsors and officials alike ­ to support the efforts to bring relief to this devastated nation. The support from around the world is an encouraging sight, and I hope our efforts will likewise make a difference for the people of Haiti."

An eBay auction of autographed racing memorabilia will begin Jan. 15, with all proceeds being donated to American Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti. Items will be designated as part of the Haiti relief program. Initial items being auctioned at http://shop.ebay.com/ims_online/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_from=&_ipg=25:

• A helmet signed by nearly the entire starting field of the 2009 Indianapolis 500
• 2010 Indianapolis 500 cap signed by three-time winner Helio Castroneves
• A replica Indianapolis 500 milk bottle featuring the 2009 event logo, signed by Castroneves
• An IMS Centennial Era cap signed by four-time Indianapolis 500 winner A.J. Foyt and A.J. Foyt Racing driver Vitor Meira
• An IMS Centennial Era cap signed by three-time Indy 500 winner Johnny Rutherford
• An enlarged 2008 Indianapolis 500 replica ticket signed by 2007 Indy 500 winner Dario Franchitti

Fans visiting Brickyard Authentics retail locations at the IMS Hall of Fame Museum and Indianapolis International Airport will receive a 20 percent savings on any purchase with a donation of $5 or more to the American Red Cross canisters located near the register. This program is valid at the retail stores only.

Fans also can contribute directly to American Red Cross International Response Fund at www.redcross.org or by calling 1-800-REDCROSS. Donors also can text "Haiti" to 90999 on their cell phone to send a $10 donation to support Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization ­ not a government agency ­ and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or read the blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

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