ALLSTAR: Midwest Racing Fanatics Club holds benefit

CELINA, OH (2/7/00) - A group of race fans from the Celina area called Midwest Racing Fanatics recently raised money to benefit the All Star injured drivers fund. A race card and memorabilia show and auction was held January 15th at the Celina Eagle Lodge with about 350 fans and drivers in attendance. The event raised over $2,000 and will be divided between injured driver Chuck Ward who was hurt in an All Star crash in May 1992, and the family of Bill Knisley who was involved in a fatal crash at Eldora Speedway last October. An education fund has been set up for Knisley's three children.

The 2000 Benefit was the tenth for the club, with contributions going to different worthwhile charities each year. Donated items were received from many drivers, including those from the All Stars, IRL, NASCAR, ARCA, ASA, and NHRA.The was the first time the proceeds were donated to the All Stars injured drivers fund. Plans are for the event to be repeated in January 2001.