Racing4Research :: Children's Tumor Foundation

NF Hero Races in Soap Box Derby

2010-06-07T13:29:00.000-04:00

Great article on NF Hero Kevin Martin's Racing4Research fundraising effort with his soap box derby car. Check out the awesome CTF livery on his racer. Great work helping us to Fuel The Cure, Kevin!

LENOX Tools to honor the life of NF Hero Pete Dingeman at New Hampshire NASCAR race

2010-05-19T14:21:00.001-04:00

LENOX Tools, Richard Childress Racing, and Jeff Burton will honor the life of NF Hero and LENOX Extra Mile Hero Pete Dingeman at the NASCAR Sprint Cup LENOX Industrial Tools 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on June 27.

In recognition of Pete's heroic efforts on behalf of CTF and NF research, a decal honoring Pete will be placed on the No. 31 paint scheme, and the 2010 LENOX Industrial Tools 301 will be dedicated to him.

#14 CTF GT3 is now an official Fathead!

2010-02-12T14:50:00.000-05:00

Fathead has created an official Fathead wall graphic of the #14! Fathead is donating a quantity of the #14 wall graphics to CTF and ALL profits from the sales will go to CTF - so BUY ONE TODAY!

2010 Rolex 24 Images

2010-02-03T15:41:00.004-05:00

Giving Thanks

2010-02-01T12:52:00.006-05:00

It will be few more days until we have a final total for this year's Racing4Research fundraising effort - we're still adding up the money raised from our race day parties and awaiting checks that are in the mail.

In the meantime, we need to offer our sincere thanks and gratitude to the remarkable people that made this year's Racing4Research effort a reality. First, and foremost, thanks to team owner Gordon Friedman and his amazing crew from Autometrics Motorsports. Gordon opened his team to CTF and we immediately felt like we were home. The team did an amazing job on the #14 Porsche GT3 and we finished the 24-hour race for a second straight year - a pretty remarkable feat in the endurance racing world.

Thanks to Frank Resciniti, our crew chief for the second straight year (and they guy who deserves a lot of credit for getting us to the checkered flag again!) Frank is a huge supporter of R4R and our NF Hero families and his determination and commitment to our program is evident in every lap we completed.

Last, but hardly least, we need to thank our amazing drivers. These are the guys that take the energy and strength from our NF Hero families and translate it into keeping the car on the track for 24 straight hours. Red-eyed and weary, our drivers gave everything they had to make sure that our families had a car on the track at the end of the race. Daniel Graeff, Glen Gatlin, Seth Thomas, and Ron Yarab - THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

Final Stats

2010-01-31T19:32:00.000-05:00

The Children's Tumor Foundation #14 finished 15th in class and completed 611 laps which, I do believe, is a new record for the Racing4Research team! Many thanks to everyone for following along, for raising much needed money for NF research and for your race day parties throughout the country. We'll let you know the final tally when we know but whether we got to $300,000 or not we have ensured that a great deal of funds will be put in the hands of some of the best reseachers in the world to help find treatments and a cure for neurofibromatosis, and that's what we're all about.

More pictures, video and some final thoughts on the race tomorrow, thanks again to everyone, hope you enjoyed the race!

Less than 15 Minutes Left!

2010-01-31T15:18:00.002-05:00

And just moments ago the Children's Tumor Foundation #14 car went over 600 laps! The car's battered and there's duct tape all over it but it's still running along. We're 15th in class and Ron Yarab, a doctor who sees patients with NF, is behind the wheel to bring it home!

Down in the Pits

2010-01-31T14:01:00.000-05:00

One of the best parts of the Rolex 24 experience is going down to the pit and seeing where the magic happens (or where the sausage is made depending on your perspective). The smell of burnt rubber permeates the entirety of the area and a certain camaraderie bonds everyone in the pits. To be in the pits is to feel like you're part of something greater.

I was down there about an hour ago when Glen Gatlin was taking over for Daniel Graeff during a driver change. At this point the crew and the drivers are all pretty tired but when Daniel pulled up everyone was all business. Daniel hopped out, patted Glen on the back as he jumped in, the crew dropped the car and the #14 car was gone.

The Great Save

2010-01-31T13:33:00.002-05:00

Video interview with driver Glen Gatlin describing his experience as the left front ball-joint failed at 170 mph with 3 hours left in the race. The Autometrics Motorsports team quickly replaced the damaged parts, spending just 30 minutes in the pits.

The Pits!

2010-01-31T12:57:00.001-05:00

Back on Track

2010-01-31T10:57:00.001-05:00

After an earlier tire problem that took the car off the track, the Children's Tumor Foundation #14 is back and humming along behind the capable hands of Daniel Graeff. After 486 laps we're 15th in class and still competing, no small feet when you consider all the cars that have packed it in (10 by my count).

We were just in the pits and had an opportunity to speak with Autometrics crew member Mac McGehee. McGehee said the team is happy with how the car has performed mechanically. The tire issue forced the car into a side bank and the ensuing crash required a fender and radiator replacement as well as some power steering issues. Otherwise they've had some problems with the alternator but this is not uncommon when you have a car traveling for the better part of 20 hours.

Pics from the pit:

If You Can't Stand The Waiting

2010-01-30T23:41:00.002-05:00

If you're like me and you're up late and need to know what's happening at the track, check out Grand-Am's live timing and scoring page - check out the GT Class and look for #14 to see how we're doing throughout the night. SPEED's live television coverage begins again at 7:00 AM EST.

A Different Perspective

2010-01-30T20:40:00.000-05:00

Garrett suggested I share some pix from my travels with our team spotter trying to solve a communications issue. We took a trip to the spotter's perch high atop the Sprint Tower, on top of the big grandstand along the front stretch of the superspeedway. We ended up resolving the communications issue and I enjoyed the unique chance to watch the #14 from such a great location. Pretty cool...

That's the #14 crossing the finish line

More Pictures

2010-01-30T20:30:00.000-05:00

The rainy grid just before the start of the race

CTF drivers (l-r): Ron Yarab, Daniel Graeff, Seth Thomas, Glen Gatlin

From the pits - driver Daniel Graeff gets ready for his first stint in the #14

Crew chief Frank Resciniti discussing strategy

and for our McDreamy fans... George speaking with Patrick Dempsey

Live Rolex 24 Standings

2010-01-30T20:03:00.001-05:00

Can be found here by clicking on the green icon on the right hand side. These standings are substantially more difficult to find than one might expect, hence the post. No word yet on exactly what happened to the car but it seems that it was just a spin-out as we're back on the track and have just closed to 9 laps behind the leader.

Fireworks in the near future, hopefully not for the car (knocking on wood). Another great Rolex 24! Be back soon.

We Break, Our Drivers Don't (Often)

2010-01-30T19:38:00.001-05:00

Our NF Heroes and their families have mostly made their way back to their hotels for some down time after an exciting day. We didn't get to walk the car out to the start grid, as is normally the case, due to the inclement weather. This was unfortunate as this is usually a very emotional time where our drivers and NF Heroes get one last chance to cheer one another on before the race. And as our group is so big this year -- well over 100 people between the Heroes, their families, our sponsors, and the drivers -- it would've made a truly great impression. But, there's always next year for that part of the Rolex 24.

As for the race the Children's Tumor Foundation #14 car is currently in 19th place and has yet to encounter any major technical difficulties. Oh, wow, actually as I wrote that Glen Gatlin spun out, not sure what the issue was/is. I'm going to look into it and will return.

Green Flag!

2010-01-30T16:19:00.001-05:00

The rain's subsided, the green flag is out and the Children's Tumor Foundation #14 GT3 is flying around the track in front of us. We're steps away from the track and the noise is astounding. Think of the last time you heard a Harley motor down an otherwise quite neighborhood street, now imagine standing an arms length away while 100 more pass by directly behind and you'll get the sense of what it's like. Some people wear ear plugs but for me it's part of this unique experience, it's part of the race. Of course tomorrow my head'll be pounding and my ears'll be ringing but just like the drivers and the NF Heroes, I'll endure.

Pictures to come.

It's Raining on Our Parade

2010-01-30T15:23:00.001-05:00

But nobody seems to mind. We're warm and dry in the Pit Road Patio but it's coming down hard out there. We just got some good news that NBCsports.com is interested in publishing an article on the R4R story. We'll keep you up on further developments.

We're only a couple minutes away from the start of the Rolex 24, hope you can watch at home on SPEED, if not we'll have all the latest news as it comes in.

One for Princess

2010-01-30T13:29:00.000-05:00

In one of the posts below passionfruitprincess commented and signed her name Brenda McCool. Brenda's an NF Hero and it just so happened I took a picture of Brenda's name on the car! Enjoy Brenda, hope you like.

Please feel free to share your story or ask questions in the comments. I'll do my best to respond and fulfill any requests. Happy race day!

Thoughts from the Drivers before the Rolex 24

2010-01-30T13:05:00.004-05:00

Last night we had a chance to get a couple thoughts from Glen Gatlin, Ron Yarab, and Daniel Graeff ahead of the Rolex 24. We didn't get a chance to catch up with Cory Friedman, our qualifying driver because, well, his wife and he are mere hours away from bringing their second child into the world in South Carolina (good luck to the Friedman's on this joyous occasion). He's going to try to race down tomorrow and catch the end of the Rolex 24

Due to Cory's absence the Children's Tumor Foundation #14 GT3 will start at the back of the pack, as the rules dictate that the qualifying driver must be the starting driver or the team is penalized by starting in the back of the field. Oh well, the Rolex 24 is a marathon, not a sprint, and this race will not be won in the 1st, 100th, 200th or even 500th lap. The drivers were certainly cognizant of that fact when we spoke with them last night:

Ron Yarab, MD
"The 24 Hours is the pinnacle of motorsports and our goal is to survive and drive our race. We're not racing against other cars, we're racing against the clock. We need to keep it together and endure, like the children and families who live with NF, because like them, we're in it for the long-haul."

Glen Gatlin
"We're all so excited to be able to race for something other than ourselves. Our goal is to race to win as we see the children race to win against NF."

Daniel Graeff
"There's something amazing about racing the Rolex 24 with the support of the kids and their families. Something magical happens that makes the drivers better, the crew better and the car better. There's no greater honor than racing for these kids."

On a personal note, that's what each drivers said when I asked them for their thoughts on the race. I didn't ask them for their thoughts on Racing4Research or racing for the Children's Tumor Foundation, that's the kind of people we're fortunate enough to have behind the wheel for us today.

Godspeed, indeed.

Cars, Kids and Fun

2010-01-30T12:07:00.000-05:00

Much more to come...

NF Heroes Race to Rolex 24

2010-01-30T01:00:00.000-05:00

Tonight we had a milestone event in our quest to end neurofibromatosis through research. Our NF Heroes' families shared their experiences fundraising throughout the year, our sponsors shared their appreciation for the work of our families, and our drivers shared their emotions at seeing the good and important work of the Foundation, made possible by the incredible efforts of the Children's Tumor Foundation family (and, though they're too modest to admit it, the drivers themselves). The evening culminated when Trane -- one of the Children's Tumor Foundation #14 car's longtime sponsors --- inspired by the evening's events, pledged to donate an additional $25,000 to Racing4Research for vital NF research.

It was a really magical event, one that will not soon be forgetten. We all have opportunities in our lives to do something good, something true. Our families seize that opportunity, share it with their children and show what can be done when hope meets resolve. It's truly inspirational to see a collection of individuals who recognize the challenges they face, the challenges of NF, as an opportunity rather than a burden. These are the people that constitute Racing4Research, and your faithful blogger can speak confidently for the Foundation's staff, that we couldn't be more honored to to work on their behalf.

And now, we shall race, and as Glen Gatlin, one of the R4R drivers said, GODSPEED...

2010-01-30T00:59:00.000-05:00

The Stuff McDreams are Made of

2010-01-29T15:49:00.002-05:00

The Racing4Research team caught up with Patrick Dempsey at the track today. The car looked great and ran well in the last warm-up before the Rolex 24. Tomorrow we'll have close ups of all the NF Heroes names and the updates will come as fast as the car goes.

Pictured below: Patrick Dempsey, Darren Law (2009 Daytona 24 champion), and Jack Roush (NASCAR team owner and motorsport legend).

NF Heroes Descend on Daytona; Qualifiers go off Without a Hitch

2010-01-29T10:23:00.002-05:00

Friday of race weekend, the NF Heroes and their families are coming in from around the country for the Rolex 24 at Daytona. We'll be blogging live from the race with all you need to know about the race, the drivers, the NF Heroes and all the festivities of the Rolex 24.

Yesterday's qualifiers went well, the R4R car finished 22nd in its class, in a tightly-knit field only 3 seconds behind the leader. We'll try to steal a couple minutes with the drivers later this evening for some pre-race thoughts and expectations.

Happy race weekend!

#14 CTF Car Graphics Unveiled

2010-01-27T13:27:00.001-05:00

NF Heroes' Names To Appear on the #14 CTF GT3

2010-01-25T17:05:00.005-05:00

Introducing our 2010 NF Heroes! Below are the names of 70 NF Heroes that will appear on the #14 Children's Tumor Foundation/Autometrics Motorsports Porsche GT3 at this weekend's 24 Hours At Daytona. Please consider making a donation in their honor or, when available, click on an individual's name to make a donation to their personal fundraising page.

Alex Pasch
Alexandra Konidaris
Andrew Adrian
Andrew Katz
Angelina Moscatello
Ann Sheeleigh
Annysa Ginsberg
Antonio Danino
Ashley Meyer
Bara Colodne
Ben Monterotti
Bernadette Tardio
Blake Robinson
Bob Beck
Brian Behrens
Brenda McCool
Brianna Worden
Caleigh Lawlor
Cameron Arnette
Celia LaBarbera
Chris Byrka
Courtland Hines
Dallas Henderson
Daniel Hayden
Delaney Watts
Destiny Burke
Drew Leathers
Ethan Wray
Evan Perdew
Everett Crisman
Gabriel Helpingstine
Isobelle Mick
Izzy Botko
Jacqueline Dunlap
Jesse Markland
Jessica Ramirez
Jocelyn Cantrell
Joe Kemphaus
John Schafer
Joseph Anania
Julia Perfetti
Katelyn Watkins
Kevin Martin
Koda Rentschler
Laurie Wagner
Lilly Ann Brooks
Luke Wallace
Lynne Stockman
Marette Nagel
Marisol Cordova
Meghan Amendola
Michael Zazula
Mickey Acosta
Nathan Gawrych
Nicholas Biering
Nicholas Gilbert
Owen Polak
Pete Dingeman
Quinn Clarke
Raymond Thomas
Renae Stob
Rob Schafer
Rose Match Suna
Rosie Colucci
Sam Couillard
Sandra Bloomberg
Taylor & Kirsten Halbert
Tyler Hamel
Tyler Robinson

Doctor to Race Daytona for Checkered Flag and Patients

2010-01-25T12:58:00.001-05:00

When Ron Yarab Jr. MD of Poland, Ohio, takes to the track at Daytona International Speedway on January 30, to race in the Rolex 24, he’ll be racing for the checkered flag but also to raise funds and awareness for children, including some of his patients, living with neurofibromatosis (NF). Dr. Yarab is a physical medicine and rehab physician who has worked extensively with children affected by NF and will raise funds for their cause through Racing4Research, a unique fundraising campaign established by the Children’s Tumor Foundation (www.ctf.org).

“The opportunity to do work that I love, bettering the health of physically challenged children, coupled with the sport that I love, auto racing, is like a dream come true. With each lap that I complete we raise funds to research various forms of cancer, bone abnormalities, learning disabilities and many of the other forms that NF can take in children, it’s an honor to have that opportunity.”

This is the fourth year the Children's Tumor Foundation’s Racing4Research program will compete in the Rolex 24 At Daytona, the nation’s premier endurance auto-race. For 24 straight hours Dr. Yarab and four fellow drivers will race with each lap the team completes raising money pledged by donors for clinical trials of potential NF treatments.

“The endurance aspect of the race is similar to the endurance aspect of leading a life with neurofibromatosis,” said George Orfanakos, Executive Director of the Children’s Tumor Foundation. “After 24 straight hours of racing the cars are often very beat up and very run down. The Children’s Tumor Foundation is competing in a race to prevent children from suffering the potentially devastating effects that a lifetime of neurofibromatosis can have on the body and Dr. Yarab is helping make sure we win the race.”

Neurofibromatosis is a progressive disorder that affects more than one in every 3,000 children born and causes tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body. NF is more prominent than cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy and Huntington’s disease combined. The Racing4Research program has raised more than $500,000 for NF research since its inception. This program has already raised more than $225,000 for the 2010 Rolex 24 campaign.

CTF partners with Autometrics for 2010 Rolex 24

2010-01-19T13:27:00.003-05:00

The Children’s Tumor Foundation and Autometrics Motorsports have partnered to race the Rolex 24, the nation’s most prestigious endurance auto racing event, at the Daytona International Speedway on January 30-31. This is the fourth year the Foundation’s Racing4Research program will participate in the 24 hour race, billed as the ultimate test of man and machine. Overall the program has raised more than a $500,000 for neurofibromatosis research and is closing in on the goal of $300,000 for this year.

“The endurance aspect of the race is similar to the endurance aspect of leading a life with neurofibromatosis,” said Children’s Tumor Foundation Executive Director George Orfanakos. “After 24 straight hours of racing the cars are often very beat up and very run down. At the Children’s Tumor Foundation we’re competing in a race to prevent children from having to endure the effects that a lifetime of neurofibromatosis can have on the body.”

Racing4Research (www.racing4research.org) is a unique fundraising program that allows donors to make per lap or flat pledges to help raise funds and awareness for NF and then follow the race on the SPEED channel. The program features NF Heroes, individuals affected by NF, whose names appear on the car, and many of whom attend the race or race-day parties throughout the country and fundraise for the event.

“What makes our Racing4Research effort so special is the presence and participation of our NF Heroes from across the country,” said Orfanakos. “It is important for those living with neurofibromatosis to know that the Children’s Tumor Foundation is by their side and that they are not alone in their fight against this disorder."

Autometrics Motorsports is a professional road racing team located in Charleston, SC that competes successfully in the prestigious Grand-Am Rolex Series and Koni Challenge Series. The team led by driver Cory Friedman, finished 3rd in the over-all GT point standings for the 2005 season. Friedman, along with returning R4R drivers Daniel Graeff and Ron Yarab will make this years team highly competitive as they race for more than just the checkered flag.

FOX35 covers Racing4Research at the Rolex 24

2009-05-08T12:15:00.003-04:00

SPEED Interviews No. 85 Driver During Daytona 24

2009-03-05T22:19:00.004-05:00

Post-race thoughts from the #85 team

2009-01-29T10:39:00.002-05:00

Michael Gomez, driver: "I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for such a moving and rewarding experience with the Children's Tumor Foundation. From the NF Heroes to the parents to the family and friends, all were such wonderfully genuine people that I raced with a completely different purpose and focus. As my time in the race car progressed, a bigger and bigger smile developed inside my helmet as I realized each completed lap was assisting those I had met over the magical weekend."

Frank Resciniti (#85 crew chief and Farnbacher Loles team manager): "This was the most worthwhile race at Daytona of my whole career." (Frank was crew chief for the Corvette CR-5, with drivers Dale Earnhardt and Dale Earnhardt, Jr., when it finished fourth overall at the 2001 Rolex 24 so that means a lot.)

No. 85 Pit Crew: The drivers pooled their money which they wanted to give to the #85 crew members as thanks for their hard work during the Rolex 24. When presented with the gift, the Farnbacher Loles crew turned down the offer and instead asked that the money be donated to the Racing4Research program. A remarkable gesture - every member of the team was truly touched by the weekend.

Quotes from the drivers of the #85

2009-01-27T16:47:00.007-05:00

Wolf Henzler: (on qualifying) "I left the pits and then I had a big vibration in the car. It was too risky, so I pitted immediately. The crew couldn't find anything, so I said I would go out again and I would do only one timed lap. I did 1:50.1, then I heard on the radio that Andy Lally [in another Porsche] was doing 49.5 and I knew I could go quicker. So I decided to do another lap. Even with the vibration, it was better and the more laps I did, the quicker I went. The crew did a good job and prepared the car very well."

Daniel Graeff: "It's the most unbelievable challenge I've ever experienced – emotionally, physically and mentally. I love it! We brought the car home, but we left a little bit on the table this year. I'm headed back here next year and we're going to get it as a team."

Richard Campollo: (after bringing the No. 85 across the finish line after a 2.5 hour stint behind the wheel) "I'd like to thank fourth gear in my gearbox." The No. 85 lost the clutch and 5th & 6th gear at hour 21 but was still able to finish the race thanks to Richard's skill and hard work.

Michael Gomez: (on driving the No. 85 for CTF) "As a child psychiatrist, I have assisted children who have struggled with genetic disorders, including Neurofibromatosis. When I learned of the opportunity to increase awareness for the Children's Tumor Foundation via my avocational passion of auto racing, my support was without hesitation or reservation."

Ron Yarab: (on driving the No. 85 for CTF) “Driving for the Children’s Tumor Foundation offers a unique opportunity to combine my two passions, medicine and racing for the benefit of neurofibromatosis. An added bonus will be to see the kids in the garage at Daytona. I can’t wait to see the look of wonderment in their faces when they see and touch the race car. I just wish I could channel all that energy!”

Driver Thoughts on the Rolex 24 At Daytona:

Michael Gomez: "The Rolex 24 At Daytona continues to be one of the most exhilarating and challenging experiences of my life. The only personal comparison I can make is the combined mental exhaustion of being up all night on call as a doctor, the physical exhaustion of running a marathon and the adrenaline rush of sky diving. And I wouldn't have it any other way..."

Daniel Graeff: "Since I was a boy, I've dreamed of this place, these cars and this race. For some, it's conquering Everest or the Tour de France, but for a racer this is the pinnacle. A hallowed place that has tested individual and machine and sought out greatness. I am awed, honored and blessed to be here where giants have walked. There is nothing, nothing more challenging to the core than running this race, with and against these great drivers and these great teams."

Ron Yarab: “Winning the 24 hours of Daytona is like climbing Everest, except there are 50 other guys out there ready to push you off the next ledge you come to.”

Richard Campollo: "Esto va ser una locura!"

2009-01-27T16:32:00.000-05:00

2009-01-27T16:10:00.001-05:00

Official #85 Race Report - Hour by Hour

2009-01-27T15:46:00.004-05:00

2009-01-26T14:33:00.000-05:00

2009-01-26T14:20:00.003-05:00

2009-01-26T12:23:00.000-05:00

2009-01-26T12:01:00.000-05:00

Post Race Recap

2009-01-25T18:15:00.003-05:00

As your faithful blogger sits here in the airport exhausted yet invigorated, waiting to return to the cold of New York, I feel a profound sense of gratefulness to the people who made this weekend possible. First, the drivers; our drivers are what's called in the racing world "gentlemen drivers," they are individuals who pay their own way and in essence sponsor the car so that the Children's Tumor Foundation can receive the opportunity to raise awareness and funds for research into neurofibromatosis. Second, the crew and staff of Farnbacher Loles Racing; without their support this weekend simply could not happen, they are the essence of any race car and they have been absolutely wonderful to CTF and our NF Heroes. Third, our sponsors; Wireless Zone, Trane, Fathead, Quicken Loans, Bergen County Auto, their support drives NF research. And finally, our NF Heroes, their families and all of you who read this blog and support the cause; whatever NF may do to the body it seems to to the opposite to the spirit. We had some of the kindest and most caring people at the track this weekend (and commenting on this blog!) and the opportunity to have them share with us was an inspiring experience.

Boarding calls but check back all week for more pictures from an amazing weekend. Thanks again everyone!

The Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona Comes to an End

2009-01-25T15:34:00.005-05:00

David Donahue's 58 car outlasted Juan Pablo Montoya's 01 car in the closest finish in Rolex 24 history. A wonderfully exciting finish even for novice race fans (like your faithful blogger). The Children's Tumor Foundation No. 85 car finished more than 600 laps in an effort reminiscent of many of those who live with neurofibromatosis but endure through the many, often times unexpected and unpredictable, struggles they face. Many many thanks to our amazing drivers, Farnbacher Loles crew, Wireless Zone, Trane, Quicken Loans, Fathead, Bergen County Auto and all our readers. I'm going to join the Racing4Research crew down by the car but will be back with further updates as soon as possible. Thanks again everyone, what fun!

2 Minutes!

2009-01-25T15:30:00.000-05:00

The 58 and 01 are engaged in an epic battle, here we go on the final lap!

15 Minutes Left!

2009-01-25T15:14:00.002-05:00

Looks like the CTF No. 85 car's going to make it! The whole Racing4Research team is gathering in the Pit Row Patio to chear it on to the finish! As for the DP class the front of the pack is still very tight with the 01 car stalking the 58 in what is sure to be a great finish. We'll be right here posting when it happens!

Wow, What a Race!

2009-01-25T14:36:00.005-05:00

If you can tune into Speed for the last hour of the Rolex 24 Hours At Daytona we strongly recommend doing so. In addition to the valiant effort of Children's Tumor Foundation No. 85 car in the GT class there is also an amazing battle unfolding in the Daytona Prototype class. The lead three cars are separated by mere seconds after more than 23 hours of racing! There's speculation that this may be the closest 24 hour race since a race at Le Mans in France 40 years ago!

If you can't tune into Speed worry not, your faithful blogger will be right here with all your race needs!

Exchange Between Richard and Crew Member

2009-01-25T14:02:00.005-05:00

Richard: "Hey [crew members name - couldn't hear who it was] where's the stereo on this thing, does it have a radio?"
Crew Member: "No cause if it did you wouldn't listen to me."

A nice moment of levity as we reach the back stretch. Richard will be coming in soon to pit. The crew seems to feel that if he can make it another "ten, twelve laps" they'll be able to finish the race despite the transmission concerns.

Race Update

2009-01-25T13:25:00.003-05:00

With a little more than two hours left in the Rolex 24 Hours At Daytona the Children's Tumor Foundation No. 85 car is in 17th place and Richard Campollo of the Dominican Republic is at the wheel. An interesting development that's occured since I started writing this post (it's 1:27 EST right now) is the car's inability to shift into 5th gear. Richard came over the radio and told the crew that it'll go into 4th but ever since he downshifted from 5th it's not allowed him to go back. The crew has decided that with 2 hours left in the race they'll let it go and hope the transmission holds. We'll keep you updated right here on anything else coming over the radio.

Pit Update

2009-01-25T11:56:00.009-05:00

Sorry for the delay on the "pronto" promise. Your faithful blogger just had a chance to go down to the pits and then stuffed way more chicken piccata into his belly than can possibly be healthy. Anyway we're experiencing some internet connectivity issues that are limiting our abilities to upload images. In the meantime you may be interested in the experience of going down to the pits in the 21st hour of an auto endurance race.

The most striking feature of the Farnbacher pit (and one can reasonably assume all the other pits) is the level of exhaustion the crew members are experiencing. 5 o'clock shadows have stayed up past their curfew and crew members are sleeping in positions in which only the truly exhausted can reach REM. As I entered a crew member on my right was receiving a massage from a woman who had the countenance and appearance of a mother - a welcome sight I'm sure for the worn out ladies and gentlemen of the Farnbacher crew - and on my left a crew member was passed out sitting up with his feet in a pins and needles inducing position. A group of four men sat perched on a four foot high stand glued to computer monitors and tires stacked in groups of four were littered about everywhere. A crew member named Adam, with scruff that looked like he had been working back to back to back endurance races, approached me and asked if I had an extra Children's Tumor Foundation hat. He said he appreciated the work of the Foundation and was impressed with the dedication of our volunteers. I thanked him, told him I'd look into finding a hat (and I will) and thanked him for the great work he and his crew members are doing. He seemed excited to talk to someone who wasn't discussing tire pressure and we shared a few laughs before he returned to work.

Shortly thereafter a gigantic fireman walked by me as the CTF No. 85 car came into pit. The gentleman was decked head-to-toe in flame retardant gear (literally head-to-toe, including over his face) and I realized the potential danger of the pits area and importance of precaution (about 15 minutes after I left the pits a car caught fire not far from the Farnbacher area - everyone was okay). The crew jumped into action but were not quite as speedy as the pit guys you see in shorter races, quality and thoroughness being more important than a second here or there.

As the car pulled away it was time to go but not without a new found respect for the dedication and commitment of the great Farnbacher crew.

Speed Coverage!

2009-01-25T11:08:00.003-05:00

In a development that was goosebump-level exciting Speed just spent nearly 5 minutes covering the CTF car. We're not sure what the announcers were saying but regardless the exposure is great for raising awareness about NF. Below are two pictures from the Farnbacher Loles Facebook page. Check it out for further pictures from the race and updates about a great organization. We'll be back pronto with a whole treasure trove of photos.

And We're Back

2009-01-25T10:08:00.007-05:00

We arrived at the track for the second day of the Rolex 24 about an hour ago and passed the Children's Tumor Foundation No. 85 car on an infield road as it was travelling on the track (or rather it passed us). We noticed the driver's side seemed to be a bit charred and the "8" on the 85 was all but gone. We talked with some of the race die-hards, who've been here all night, and they said that a little past 3 in the morning the car blew a tire, the drivers side front tire, and as a result the radiator went (your faithful blogger is uniquely familiar with radiator problems having cracked one on a pothole during a ski trip in Vermont). The Farnbacher Loles crew took the car back to the garage and about an hour later it was back on the track.

This is a very, very long race and car troubles are bound to happen along the way. Thankfully the CTF No. 85 car has the services of a very talented (and genuinely nice) crew of technicians who were able to get it back on the track in good time. We had been up to 8th place but we dropped to 20th following the troubles. Michael Gomez, a doctor who sees patients with NF -when not flying around a racetrack at ungodly speeds - has us back up to 17th place and climbing. Over the radio I just heard the pit say that he's on lap 21 of his 30 lap stint. When Dr. Gomez initially went out the pit was encouraging him to remain cautious and focus on taking the turns carefully. "Lets make sure we bring this guy in," said one of the crew members. I think this speaks to the challenge of keeping a race car on a track for 24 straight hours. The team is on the precipice of accomplishing a true feat and do not want to compromise it at this point. We'll be back soon with more pictures.

A Few Last Images Until the Morning

2009-01-25T01:27:00.003-05:00

What a great event the Rolex 24 At Daytona has been! In addition to several local television segments here in the Daytona/Orlando area we've had Speed and Fox national coverage of the car and the cause. These are small steps but taken together we can make giant leaps toward ending neurofibromatosis. Below are a few more images of the pre-race festivities, we'll be back around 9 am EST to bring you race photos and updates. Have a great evening!

Fireworks!

2009-01-24T21:59:00.004-05:00

The fireworks are off and they're stunning. Speed Channel has just left the race until tomorrow morning but if you still wish to follow it online you may do so here. And without further ado, at the (semi)request of Lynne S. more photos from this morning's festivities:

129 Laps In...

2009-01-24T20:05:00.003-05:00

with many more to go the CTF No. 85 car is in 12th place and Richard Campollo is now at the wheel. Many members of the Racing4Research team (including one blogger) have retired to the hotel for a brief respite. We'll be back at the racetrack later this evening for the fireworks show. The fireworks are among the many kid-centric activities offered during the course of the Rolex 24. The infield offers an old-fashioned amusement park with Ferris Wheel and carnival games. There's also a climbing wall and bungee chair in the new-this-year Tropicana Zone. The offerings seem to be attracting a great deal of participants and with the race, several measures larger this year than last, there will certainly be even more fun games for children to get involved in next year. I'll be back later this evening with an update and additional photos.

No. 85 on Speed Channel

2009-01-24T16:53:00.004-05:00

Speed just came back from a commercial break with the view from the top of the CTF No. 85 car which prominently features the Children's Tumor Foundation logo!

Your faithful blogger also just returned from the "Pit Road Patio" where he was treated to a delicious bbq sandwich known in Baltimore, and maybe soon to be adopted at racetracks around the country as "Pit Beef". CTF has three sections of the Pit Road Patio, which is located just past the start line, and perched up 3 stories high for a true birds eye view of the track. While Speed and Fox have done very well in their coverage of the Rolex 24 thus far, it's difficult to describe how much different the experience of actually being here is. The closest analogy this blogger can think of is the difference between a hockey game on TV and a hockey game live. The raw power of the players/cars and the devastating effect as they crash into the boards simply cannot be fully captured on a screen in a den. No matter how big they make televisions.

Also of note is recent coverage of the CTF car here and here, and for those in the Orlando/Daytona area make sure to tune in to Fox 35 News at 5 and 10 for segments on the Racing4Research campaign.

Ron Yarab Jr. has taken over for Wolf Henzler and seems to be taking a more cautious approach but the crew sounds pleased with his driving. After all, it is a marathon, certainly not a sprint.

CTF No. 85 11th out of 31

2009-01-24T16:35:00.002-05:00

Wolf Henzler has the CTF No. 85 car positioned well after a little over an hour of racing. After spending much of the first hour in the 6-8th position Henzler dropped a few spots but is still withing striking distance of leader Dominick Farnbacher (son of the co-founder of CTF partner Farnbacher Loles).

Of note in the first hour of racing are the problems the No. 70 car has experienced. Last years Rolex 24 winner the 70 was forced into the garage after leaking fuel in the pit. This may prove fortuitous for the CTF No. 85 car going forward.

Start Your Engines!

2009-01-24T15:23:00.003-05:00

Following a moving rendition of the National Anthem and a very very cool fly over by two fighter jets we're ready to begin. The cars are following the pace car around the track right now awaiting the green flag, the CTF No. 85 Porsche GT3 will be driven by the great Wolf Henzler for the first leg...and the green flag is out and their off! Great start by the No. 85 car, I'm plugged in to the pit's radio and the crew is very happy with their start, "best pre-race ever" was just said. More to come.

Minutes Away...

2009-01-24T14:46:00.000-05:00

We're mere minutes away from the start of the 2009 Rolex 24 Hours At Daytona. The whole Children's Tumor Foundation Racing4Research team just followed the drivers and the car from the garage to the pit in a parade procession that included all the other cars and their supporters. Over 100 strong, the CTF R4R group was the largest (and loudest) by a wide margin. The parade included a marching band, cheerleading group and legions of onlookers.

Following the parade the team gathered for a picture on the Daytona track at the top of a turn bank. For race novices, and even seasoned race fans, the slope of the bank was something to marvel at. It's difficult to walk straight up the slope as you get the sensation you might fall straight back.

Great photos from the parade will follow at some point. But for now, many thanks to Farnbacher Loles, Wireless Zone, Bergen County Auto, Quicken Loans, Fathead and others for their support. Stay with us and root on the No. 85 on Fox!

Saturday Morning Meet and Greet and Autograph Session

2009-01-24T13:49:00.001-05:00

Daytona 5k Run and Fun Walk

2009-01-24T12:09:00.000-05:00

Today was kicked off with a 5k Run and Fun Walk that included several NF Hero family members and three Children's Tumor Foundation staffers (including one blogger in need of some coffee). The event began at 7 am and participants were able to watch the sun rise over Daytona as they ran/walked on the most famous track in all of auto racing. The rest of the Racing4Research team arrived around 10 am and were greeted with another opportunity to meet the soon-to-be winning drivers and the No. 85 Children's Tumor Foundation Porsche GT3. After another quick photo op the team - including all the NF Heroes - signed the under-wing of the car for good luck. Also among the signers was Dr. Peggy Wallace, a researcher whose work was instrumental in the isolation of the NF1 gene. We'll have pictures of the very moving event soon (after the aforementioned coffee or two) and don't forget to tune into the Rolex 24 Hours At Daytona starting today at 3 pm EST on Fox.

Friday's Pictures

2009-01-24T11:54:00.000-05:00

The Friday and Saturday morning of the Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona provide a unique opportunity for race attendees to meet the drivers and get an up-close look at the car. Below are images from yesterday's meet and greet as well as a look at the names of all the NF Heroes featured on the car (click on pictures to enlarge).

2009-01-24T11:50:00.000-05:00

2009-01-24T11:49:00.000-05:00

2009-01-24T11:47:00.000-05:00

Children's Tumor Foundation Car Qualifies 5th!

2009-01-23T15:46:00.000-05:00

The Number 85 Children's Tumor Foundation Porsche GT3 qualified with the 5th fastest time of GT3 cars putting it throughly in contention for the checkered flag at the Rolex 24 At Daytona. Drivers Wolf Henzler of Nürtingen, Germany; Richard Campollo of SantoDomingo, Dominican Republic; Michael Gomez of Madison, Alabama; Daniel Graeff of Miami; and Ron Yarab Jr. of Poland, Ohio, have a strong car in their capable hands this weekend.

After qualifying last night the drivers came out early this morning for a meet and greet with NF Heroes and their families. More than 75 people crowded the Children's Tumor Foundation/Farnbacher Loles Racing garage for their first glimpse of the newly unveiled car. Reactions were anything but muted as the NF Heroes found their names on the car and had photo ops with the drivers.

The race beings tomorrow at 3 pm, we'll have live updates throughout the day and on Sunday. Check back later this evening for pictures from today's festivities.

Win An Autographed Porsche RS Spyder Driving Suit - All Benefit CTF

2009-01-21T16:02:00.000-05:00

The Children's Tumor Foundation announced today that they will be auctioning an autographed Penske Racing RS Spyder driving suit signed by Porsche factory drivers Sascha Maassen, Patrick Long, Romain Dumas, Timo Bernhard, and Emmanuel Collard. The auction will be conducted on eBay® with 100% of the proceeds going to the Children's Tumor Foundation Racing4Research program, a program that raises money for neurofibromatosis (NF) research. A genetic disorder, NF affects 1 in every 3,000 births and causes tumors to grow on nerves anywhere in the body. The auction begins at 6:00 p.m. (PST) on January 22nd and closes 10 days later.

The black and yellow Penske Racing Stand21 suit, donated by Porsche AG, is accompanied by Porsche Motorsport posters commemorating the team’s 2008 ALMS championship season. "This driving suit is a must have for die-hard Porsche motorsports collectors and fans," said Jill Beck, Racing4Research Program Coordinator for the Children's Tumor Foundation. "It's a one-of-a-kind authentic piece of racing history. The recent news that Porsche is shuttering their ALMS RS Spyder program for 2009 should make this suit even more collectible to the Porsche racing enthusiast."

The auction is timed to coincide with the 47th running of the 24 Hours At Daytona, January 24-25, 2009. The No. 85 Farnbacher Loles Porsche GT3 Cup car entry will carry the Children's Tumor Foundation logo and colors and will be raising funds during the race for NF research. The team will be competing not just to win our nation's premier automotive endurance race but to help raise both money and awareness of this often devastating disorder.

Wolf Henzler to drive #85 CTF Porsche GT3

2008-12-16T14:00:00.000-05:00

Farnbacher Loles Racing will continue its strong association with Porsche in 2009. The team will again support six Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series presented by Crown Royal Cask No. 16 GT-class Porsche 911 GT3 machines at the season-opening Rolex 24 of Daytona on Jan. 24 - 25. The initial lineup includes drivers from nine countries and five continents.

Porsche factory driver Wolf Henzler of Nürtingen, Germany, and Richard Westbrook of London, England, will do double duty in the 24-hour race. They are both slated to drive the No. 87 Porsche GT3 with Werner and Leh Keen of Charleston, S.C. Henzler will also drive the No. 85 Farnbacher Loles/Children's Tumor Foundation Porsche GT3 with Michael Gomez of Madison, Ala., Daniel Graeff of Miami and Ron Yarab Jr. of Poland, Ohio. Westbrook will also team with Steve Johnson of Bristol, Va., Dave Lacey of Toronto (born in Durban, South Africa) and Robert Nearn of London, England, in the No. 88 Porsche GT3.

2009 Rolex 24 Hours At Daytona to test doctors’ endurance but not resolve

2008-12-12T13:57:00.000-05:00

Two doctors will take to the road on January 24, at the Daytona International Speedway to raise funds and awareness for their patients, children with a rare genetic disorder. Ron Yarab, Jr. M.D., of Poland, Ohio, a physical medicine and rehab physician and Michael Gomez, M.D., of Madison, Alabama, a child psychiatrist, have both worked with children affected by neurofibromatosis (NF) and will raise funds for their cause through a unique fundraising campaign founded by the Children’s Tumor Foundation (www.ctf.org).

“As a child psychiatrist, I have assisted children who have struggled with genetic disorders, including Neurofibromatosis,” said Gomez. “When I learned of the opportunity to increase awareness for the Children's Tumor Foundation via my passion of auto racing, my support was without hesitation or reservation.”

The doctors will be splitting time with two additional teammates as they drive the Farnbacher Loles Racing #85 Children’s Tumor Foundation Porsche GT3 at the 47th running of the Rolex 24 Hours At Daytona, the nation’s premier automotive endurance race. Each lap the team completes will raise money pledged by donors to the Children’s Tumor Foundation’s Racing4Research program, a program that raises money for clinical trials of potential NF drug treatments.

“The endurance aspect of the race is similar to the endurance aspect of leading a life with neurofibromatosis,” said George Orfanakos, CTF Executive Director. “After 24 straight hours of racing the cars are often very beat up and very run down. The Children’s Tumor Foundation is competing in a race to prevent children from suffering the potentially devastating effects that a lifetime of neurofibromatosis can have on the body and these doctors are helping make sure we win the race. ”

This is the third year of the Racing4Research program that in its first two years raised $150,000. This year the Foundation hopes the program will match the total of the first two years, which would allow the funding of more than 10 separate clinical trials.

Race Recap

2008-01-31T14:00:00.000-05:00

After leading much of the race the 86 car suffered some transmission difficulties but the 87 car stepped up and completed 646 laps to finish in the 8th place position in the GT class! Below are the race results for the three CTF cars that competed in the race. More photos and reflections to come.

POS	NO.	CLASS	CLASS POS.	DRIVER	TEAM/CAR	LAPS	BEST LAP	(#)	AVG MPH	SPONSORS
18	87	GT	8	Bernhard / Ehret / Farnbacher / Werner	Farnbacher Loles / Porsche GT3 Cup	646	1:51.791	7	95.779	Farnbacher Loles Motorsports
22	88	GT	12	Curran / Kaffer / Lacey / Stippler / Wilkins	Farnbacher Loles / Porsche GT3 Cup	637	1:52.293	7	94.331	Farnbacher Loles Motorsports
33	86	GT	19	Bergmeister / Henzler / Keen / Lux / Maassen	Farnbacher Loles / Porsche GT3 Cup	580	1:51.658	40	85.947	Farnbacher Loles Motorsports

Images

2008-01-26T21:15:00.000-05:00

5:30 Update

2008-01-26T20:32:00.000-05:00

The 88 car has been pulled in after hitting a wall. The 86 car has been leading for the last 25 laps or so but now sits in third place with the 87 still trailing by several laps. More updates and photos from this morning to come (hopefully - internet connections aren't what they used to be).

Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona Update

2008-01-26T19:05:00.000-05:00

The 88 car has lost its front left headlight but is still running well. Earlier the 88 and 86 ran side by side for several minutes (more likely several seconds but it was very exciting). We are approaching the two and a half hour mark and the first driver changes were made about twenty minutes ago.

The 86 car is currently running in third with the 87 and 88 cars trailing about a lap behind the leaders. In speaking with crew members earlier today the primary concern in the early running was to maintain a good speed without putting undo pressure on the car. We will see if the strategy pays off as the day goes on.

Engines Ready?

2008-01-26T15:58:00.000-05:00

Hello and welcome to the Racing4Research Live Blog from the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona. We're about a half an hour away from the start of the race on an overcast day here in Central Florida. The cars have been move to the grid and many fans are now out on the track taking pictures and milling about.

Earlier today staff and volunteers from the Children's Tumor Foundation convened at the CTF/Farnbacher Loles garages to meet the drivers and have a first-hand look at the 86, 87 & 88 cars that will compete in todays race.

Three-year-old Jesse Markland starred as photographers and videographers filmed him sitting in the driver's seat of the 86 car that bears a decal proclaiming it the NF Hero Jesse Markland Car.

Check in regularly throughout the day as we Race4Research to find treatment and a cure for neurofibromatosis.

Visit This Blog for Live Updates on the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona

2008-01-15T15:15:00.001-05:00

Starting on Saturday, January 26.