Cancer. One word that nobody wants to hear. One word that instantly makes your mind run and murkies your thoughts even if it is not directed towards you. One word that can tear families apart, make the strongest of individuals fall to their knees. Yes, it is real, it is painful, and it is damaging. But what if we can take a stand and fight back? Friday night is that time for us to take a stand against cancer and to unite as one. Yes, Friday night at the Dacotah Speedway will be a very memorable night as it will be the 10th Annual Drive to Survive.
In 2008, a group of passionate volunteers and drivers approached the Dacotah Speedway Board of Directors to dedicate one race night to help fund raise money to fight against cancer. The Board unanimously approved the idea and in 2009, Dacotah Speedway held the first Drive to Survive. Drivers were encouraged to paint their cars pink for the night while fans supported the cause by purchasing Drive to Survive t-shirts. Those t-shirts gave the fans free admission into the races for Drive to Survive. During intermission, the track auctioned off several racing items with all proceeds raised going directly to local non-profits.
Since the inaugural night, the event has gotten bigger and better each year. The evening has grown to promote awareness of all cancers, not just breast cancer. The track has raised over $35,000 since 2009
Tomorrow will be a very busy day as the Drive to Survive will kick off with a meet and greet car show at the Bismarck Cancer Center start at 11:00 a.m. going until 3:00 p.m. From there the action will head over to the Dacotah Speedway as in addition to the regular racing action there will be the Nylee Dimeo High Heel race. There will also be an auction for the last racing hood of Nylee Dimeo which was on her car for the 2016 Drive to Survive car. Finally, the Drive to Survive Raffle will be drawn at intermission. All the proceeds will be given to the Bismarck Cancer Center.
This is a great event for all of to take a stand against cancer and a great opportunity to show our support for those battling cancer or for those who are affected by it. Racing starts at 7:00 p.m. and we will see you at the races!