Eldora speedway Digest: Tony Stewart’s Smoke Show Fundraiser Raises $78,000 for Speedway Children’s Charities and Puts Huge Smile on 99-Year-Old American Hero

 

Tony Stewart’s 14th annual Smoke Show fundraiser was a roaring success, raising $78,000 for Speedway Children’s Charities (SCC) and continuing a legacy of helping children in need throughout North Texas. Held at Stewart’s racing facility, the event showcased a heartwarming mix of racing thrills and meaningful charity, all while supporting a great cause.

A Historic Moment: WWII Veteran Don Graves Leads the Event

A key highlight of the day was the appearance of 99-year-old WWII veteran Don Graves, who opened the event by performing a moving rendition of the *Star-Spangled Banner*. Graves, a living testament to history, then had the unique opportunity to ride with Stewart in a NASCAR stock car around the track. For Stewart, this moment was equally special as it marked his first time behind the wheel of a stock car in over a year. He described a blend of nervousness and excitement, making it a truly memorable experience for everyone involved.

Stewart, a former NASCAR champion and avid philanthropist, has been the driving force behind the Smoke Show

fundraiser since its inception in 2008. Since then, the event has raised over $2 million, benefitting Speedway Children’s Charities-Texas, which allocates the funds to local nonprofits serving children in need across the region.

**By the Numbers: Impact of the Smoke Show**

– **$78,000** was raised during the 14th Smoke Show event.
– Since 2008, **over $2 million** has been raised for Speedway Children’s Charities.
– In 2023, SCC-Texas distributed **22 grants** totaling **$210,180** to support over **20,000 children** in the area.

These funds help local organizations provide essential services, such as food, medical care, education, and recreational activities, to children facing difficult circumstances. The Smoke Show’s continued success is a testament to the power of community involvement and the passion Stewart brings to his charitable work.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the funds raised are crucial for supporting local nonprofits, sustaining such high levels of donations year after year presents a challenge. The balance of funds raised through events like the Smoke Show directly impacts the ability of Speedway Children’s Charities to continue supporting its grantees. However, the growing community support for these events—along with increased participation—gives hope for the future of the fundraiser and its ongoing success.

The Future: Expanding Reach and Impact

Looking ahead, Speedway Children’s Charities-Texas is planning to allocate all funds raised in 2024 to continue supporting local organizations that provide essential services to children in need. Future Smoke Show events are expected to feature even more participants, many of whom will experience race car driving for the first time, adding to the excitement and engagement of the event.

As the Smoke Show continues to grow, it serves as a shining example of how sports and philanthropy can come together to make a lasting impact on local communities. The event is not just about the adrenaline rush of racing but also about creating a meaningful difference in the lives of children who need it most.

Bottom Line

Tony Stewart’s Smoke Show is a celebration of both speed and giving. It provides fans and participants with the rare chance to experience the thrill of NASCAR racing while raising vital funds for children in need. Through this annual fundraiser, Speedway Children’s Charities-Texas can continue to help local nonprofits deliver much-needed services to over 20,000 children. As the event grows, so too does its ability to change lives, underscoring the power of community, philanthropy, and sports working together for a common cause.