Drive For Charity - First Laps event, held on March 11, at the newly repaved Sonoma Raceway road course, raised over $15,000 for children in need in Sonoma County. Speedway Children’s Charities Sonoma, the charitable arm of Sonoma Raceway, offered the opportunity for motorsports enthusiasts to be some of the first to drive the newly repaved Sonoma Raceway road course. 

The event allowed the participants to make their mark on the freshly cured asphalt on Sonoma Raceway’s 2.52-mile road course. After 23 years since the last full repave, the newly resurfaced track not only provided participants the grip and zip they had hoped for, but also symbolized a milestone in the ongoing evolution of Sonoma Raceway. 

The occasion underscored the commitment of Sonoma Raceway to continually enhance the racing experience for drivers and spectators alike, while also allowing driving enthusiasts to have fun while contributing to the charitable efforts of Speedway Children’s Charities.

"This contribution is a great way to kick off the racing season at SCC Sonoma,” said Director of Speedway Children’s Charities Sonoma, Courtney Kiser. “It will make a tremendous impact for local children and families suffering from food insecurity, abuse and the need for vital resources such as shelter and medical treatment.” 

Funds raised from the event will go directly to supporting SCC’s mission to improving the lives of children in need within the local community by way of grants to local non-profits.  

The Sonoma chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities is one of ten located at Speedway Motorsports racing facilities across the country. Since inception in 1982, SCC has awarded in excess of $61 million to nonprofit organizations throughout the nation. 

For more information on Speedway Children’s Charities or to make a donation, visit www.speedwaycharities.org.