2/24 :: Panther Racing auction raises $125k

Panther Racing helped raise more than $125,000 for the National Guard Youth Foundation during the Feb. 23 Challenge Champions gala in Washington, D.C. The team auctioned VIP race experience packages that included pit passes, suite tickets, Indy Racing Experience two-seater rides and logo signage on the team's No. 4 National Guard entry at the Indianapolis 500 and Infineon Raceway event. The team also brought renowned painter Bill Patterson, who produced two paintings that sold for a combined $50,000. "For me, tonight is probably the most important evening our team will be a part of all year," team owner John Barnes said. "These Youth ChalleNGe cadets are the face of America's youth, and if a majority of the young people in the country have the spirit, attitude and ability to overcome obstacles like the young men and women we met tonight, our future is pretty bright." Barnes and driver Dan Wheldon have been actively involved in the Youth ChalleNGe progr...