¦ June 13, 2004
An Evening Among Racing’s Elite

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MAY 15, 2005


An Evening Among Racing’s Elite

Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation’s ‘Racing to Recovery’ Gala


INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – A racing fan’s fantasy ball – the sixth annual “Racing To Recovery” Gala, Monday night, May 16 - will host some of the biggest names in Indianapolis 500 motorsports. Some tickets still remain for the gala at Eddie Merlot’s restaurant, 3645 East 96th Street.

“It’s really become a fun annual event,” said Sam Schmidt of the largest fundraising event of the year for the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation. “It touches me each year the number and quality of people that want to be a part of the gala.”

Among the many names and faces expected to attend are some of IndyCar racing’s most elite, such as the George family, Mario and Michael Andretti, Arie Luyendyk, Sr. and Jr., as well as Richie Hearn and Infiniti Pro Series points leader Travis Gregg. Also expected to be in the crowd will be many of Indiana’s business executives such as Ron Hunter, CEO, Standard Management.

The night provides the public a unique opportunity to share an evening with some of racing’s finest, dine on delicious Eddie Merlot’s cuisine and bid on a variety of auction items from vacation packages, to a signed helmet from Michael Andretti and a signed Jeff Gordon wakeboard. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., the silent auction begins at 6:30 and the live auction will be at 8:30. Michael Andretti will receive a special presentation from the SamSchmidt Paralysis Foundation at 9:00 p.m.

Tickets are $100 per person and are available at the door. For more information on attending the event, call Gretchen Fox at (317) 450-2070.

The mission of the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation is to help individuals overcome spinal cord injuries and other neurological disorders by funding scientific research, medical treatment, rehabilitation and technological advances. The Foundation also raises funds to improve quality of life issues and ensure the best possible outcomes by touching individual lives.



NOTE: Media planning to cover the Gala should contact Lori Smith of Williams Company at (704) 660-0796 or (704) 881-2146