RICHMOND, Va. -- A pro-am kart race at Virginia International Raceway in Danville next week will benefit the Cameron Gallagher Foundation and help bring more awareness to teen mental health.
Karting4CKG will pair professional drivers with amateurs to see who is fastest around the world-famous track just ahead of the Michelin GT Challenge.
CKG Foundation head Clair Norman said next Thursday, August 24 promises to be a great night for the whole family.
“Sponsors for teams, match with a professional driver and compete for the fastest track times,” Norman said. “This a lights-out fun, competitive fundraising event. Professional drivers start their race weekend by donating their time to amplify the importance of mental health for all."
Norman, who is Cameron Gallagher’s aunt, points out that while the 16-year-old died after completing a half-marathon in March 2014, from an undiagnosed heart arrythmia, she had struggled with depression.
Norman said the young woman was adamant about bringing these issues to light so people can talk openly and find solutions. And that message resonates.
"Drivers who are there for the bigger event that weekend, are volunteering their time to help spread the word about our mission," said Norman. "And to help impact teen mental health."
Sandy Wiggins, from ACG Wealth Management, is a Gallagher family friend and a sponsor of Karting4CKG.
He came up with the idea in 2021 as a way to tie his enthusiasm for cars to a cause he is passionate about. "I've known the Gallaghers for a long time, and I knew Cameron," Wiggins said. "It seemed like a great opportunity for me to get involved personally."
“It's a great way to bring more young people to the table to talk about and raise awareness about teen mental health,” Wiggins said. “And in a different part of Virginia, to make sure the message is getting out far and wide. We couldn't do it without our great sponsors, Jack Woodfin and the Woodfin companies, Larry Page of Audi Richmond. We all care about the cause and taking care of each other. ”
Norman pointed out it's not just the young drivers who are eager to help spread awareness about teen mental health. "We hear that from adults all the time, that 'I wish I had these tools in my high school,' or 'I wish I had had access to these free resources to help me prioritize my mental health," said Norman. "But the drivers are great because they really see the need to alleviate the stigma around having this conversation."
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