Toronto Indy Car race weekend raises $485,000 for charity

Organizers of the Honda Indy Toronto opened up the streets and sites of Exhibition Place to three important charitable initiatives, helping raise more than $485,000 through the 2012 event.

Throughout race weekend, more than $35,000 was raised for Make-A-Wish® Canada by fans, Honda Canada and the Ontario Honda Dealers Association (OHDA). The popular Free Friday initiative, which was made possible by the OHDA, helped not only to introduce the sport of auto racing to thousands of families, but also to help raise funds for Make-A-Wish by offering free admission to the Honda Indy. Over the past three years, more than $235,000 was donated to Make-A-Wish from race-related activities.

A new partnership for 2012, the YMCA Relay for Strong Kids saw more than 1,200 walkers and runners hit the Honda Indy racetrack on Thursday, July 5. The fun-filled event raised $50,000 for the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign, which helps children and families in the community get active and healthy.

The 2012 edition of the Honda Indy Toronto also included the addition of a karting track to support the efforts of the Bay Street Grand Prix. The kart-racing fundraiser featured top executivesgoing head-to-head to satisfy their need for speed in exchange for funds for Sunnybrook’s Women & Babies Program.The event raised more than $400,000 and featured a VIP dinner and after-party at a nearby venue with performances by hip hop star Flo Rida and Canadian pop sensation Mia Martina.

“Holding a great event is our primary objective, but by no means is it our only one,” said Charlie Johnstone, vice president and general manager of the Honda Indy Toronto. “The Honda Indy Toronto is an important part of the community and, as such, we are committed to leaving a legacy of contribution and positive memories with our city. We look forward to seeing these initiatives continue to grow in the years to come as we broaden the community and stakeholder outreach through our event.”