Patriotic theme for <I>Runway Madness VI</I>.

Answering the call to support the families of the fallen heroes and victims of the recent attacks on America, representatives of FedEx and CARA Charities announced that the fourth annual Runway Madness charity fundraiser would be turned into a "red, white and blue celebration."

Scheduled for in Ontario, California, on 2 November, the evening's entertainment programme is currently being transformed into a patriotic 'Stars and Stripes' salute to the United States, and the majority of the event's proceeds will be donated to the New York Police and Firefighter's Widows and Children's Benefit Fund. The same fund is being supported by CART drivers and personalities through the donations of memorabilia and autographed collectibles for auction.

"Without question, this was the only appropriate action to take in light of the events of the past few weeks," said CARA charities national director Mary-Lou Bogner, "We are in the privileged position of being able to use this year's Runway Madness event to aid the families who have been touched the most by our nation's recent tragedies. We are extremely grateful to FedEx and our other valued sponsors who did not hesitate in supporting this change."

A super-party extravaganza, Runway Madness annually features food and refreshments and a full line-up of entertainment featuring FedEx Championship Series drivers, other members of the CART community and celebrities from Hollywood and the music industries. Runway Madness also includes silent and live auctions, showcasing priceless motorsports-related
experiences and memorabilia, travel packages and luxury items. All of these elements are being put through last minute changes to reflect the new red, white and blue theme of the event.

This year's honorary co-chairs of Runway Madness - A Red, White and Blue Celebration, are FedEx Championship Series star Dario Franchitti and fianc?e Ashley Judd.

Since its debut in 1998, Runway Madness has been the primary CART-related fundraiser for CARA Charities that will conclude its 20th anniversary year of celebration with the 2001 edition of the entertainment extravaganza. In addition to the recent theme change, other new developments in store for Runway Madness IV include an all-new venue - the Ontario Convention Centre [OCC] - located just one mile from the former Ontario Airport hangar that hosted the first three editions of the CARA Charities event. Less than four years old, the OCC offers a state-of-the-art venue complete with professional audio support and first-class hospitality service.

Celebrating its 20th Anniversary this year, CARA Charities was founded in 1981 to serve the community through charitable work and promote the friendship of all those involved in the motorsports family. Over $3.25million dollars has been distributed to numerous racing and community organisations, including the nationally recognised and award-winning Buckle Up Baby programme that is a partnership between CARA Charities and the Bridgestone/Firestone Trust.