Alzheimer’s Society grateful for memorial kart race funds

The event received overwhelming support from fans and the motor racing industry alike, all wishing to race in Dan's honour while also raising a total of £17,000 for the Wheldon family's chosen charity, Alzheimer's Society.

Due to the unprecedented outpouring of support for the double Indy 500 winner and IndyCar Champion, who lost his life in the final round of the IZOD IndyCar Series at Las Vegas in October, the grid was stretched to its absolute maximum with 36 teams of four drivers lining up on Monday evening.

Aptly, Dan's Dad, Clive, and his siblings Austen, Elliott, Ashley and Holly, all joined the race taking place just 10 miles from Dan's hometown of Emberton, Buckinghamshire.

Phoebe Vincent from Alzheimer' Society was at the race and said:

'It was a real privilege to be part of the Dan Wheldon Memorial Kart Race on Monday. To see so many friends and colleagues of Dan's from the racing world come together to celebrate his life and support Alzheimer's Society was very touching. We are truly overwhelmed by the wonderful amount raised.

'Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations and fundraising events such as this to continue our vital work.'

An unrivalled gathering of professional drivers from across the realms of worldwide motor sport joined together in Dan's memory for the race organised by Dan's friend, sportscar ace Johnny Mowlem.

Before the event, Johnny commented:

'The response for Dan's Memorial Kart Race has been unbelievable and really touching, from members of the public wanting to race in honour of their hero to professional drivers all too willing to give up their free time for their fallen friend.

'I can't thank everyone enough for their support. It's going to be a fantastic night and I am so pleased that Clive, Holly, Ashley, Elliott and Austen will be joining us. I hope we can do them, and of course Dan, proud.'