Jimmie Johnson Foundation partners with Phoenix Int'l Raceway

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Feb. 24, 2009) – The NASCAR Camping World Series West event at Phoenix International Raceway on April 16 again will be named the Jimmie Johnson Foundation 150, as the charitable organization has extended its partnership with the racetrack, track president Bryan R. Sperber announced Tuesday. The partnership between the Foundation and PIR reaches its second year in 2009. The Jimmie Johnson Foundation 150 is scheduled as the first of three races during the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500™ event weekend, with the green flag dropping under PIR’s bright lights at 7:15 p.m. local time on April 16. Mike David won the first Foundation-sponsored race in 2008. The Jimmie Johnson Foundation -- created by Johnson and his wife, Chandra -- is dedicated to assisting children, families and communities in need. The foundation strives to help people, particularly children, pursue their dreams. The partner programs for the Jimmie Johnson Foundation include San Diego Habitat for Humanity, the Hendrick Marrow Program, the Victory Junction Gang Camp and Phoenix-based Make-A-Wish Foundation of America. In partnership with Phoenix International Raceway, the Jimmie Johnson Foundation has designated the West Valley Child Crisis Center as its local charity of choice. The WVCCC’s mission is to provide a safe place where children are comfortable and loved, and given a chance to heal before being placed in a foster home, restored with their parent(s) or with a relative that the State deems able to provide decent care. “I really give the track a lot of credit for this partnership idea,” said Johnson, driver of the No. 48 Lowe's Chevrolet. “It’s a great way that we can raise awareness and funds for our foundation. At the same time, Chani and I are thrilled to be making a contribution to a very important local charity. We hope the children who benefit from the services of West Valley Child Crisis Center will have a chance to join us for a night of fun and racing at the Jimmie Johnson Foundation 150.” As Johnson attempts his fourth consecutive NASCAR Sprint Cup Series victory at PIR in the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500™, fans will be able to purchase a special Jimmie Johnson Foundation Ticket Package -- including a seat in the Bobby Allison Grandstands for the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500™, a pre-race pit pass, a gift and admission to a pre-race question-and-answer session with Johnson -- for $148. A portion of the proceeds from the Jimmie Johnson Foundation Sprint Cup Series race package will support the foundation and its partner programs. “We are truly excited about partnering with Chandra and Jimmie Johnson on this unique project that ties racing with philanthropy for a second consecutive year,” Sperber said. “PIR strongly believes in the work of the foundation and it was natural for us to continue to grow this partnership. Additionally, we are very excited to unveil a new and unique race experience for our fans through the Jimmie Johnson Foundation Ticket Package.” This year’s event will feature more than just a 150-mile race for the Camping World Series West teams. A special “Night of Champions” party featuring Johnson will take place in PIR’s Octane on the evening of the Jimmie Johnson Foundation 150. Proceeds from special racing items and memorabilia auctioned at the event will benefit the Jimmie Johnson Foundation and its partner programs, all with the intent of giving back to children in the Phoenix area and beyond. General race tickets for the April 16th Jimmie Johnson Foundation 150 and all other events throughout the NASCAR event weekend at PIR can be purchased at www.phoenixraceway.com or by phone -- 1-866-408-RACE (7223).