CTF partners with Autometrics for 2010 Rolex 24

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.