Contributed Photo Recording artist Barry Somerville preparing for his hot laps with Monticello Motor Club’s Executive VP Aaron Weiss.

MMC 'races' funds for Boys and Girls Clubs

Contributed Story
MONTICELLO — August 2, 2013 — Monticello Motor Club hosted the 2nd Annual “Fund Racing for Kids” last week, helping to raise more than $15,000 for the Boys & Girls Clubs in Orange & Sullivan Counties.
MMC’s professional instructors took VIP guests for “hot laps’ around the MMC course, at speeds up to 125 mph! The VIPs rode shot-gun in the new Jaguar fleet of vehicles, including the Jaguar f-type, a 490 HP convertible, and the Radical SR3 racecar.
“Monticello Motor Club is delighted to host this annual ‘Fund Racer’ for the Boys and Girls Club,” said MMC President Ari Strauss. “We believe and invest in Sullivan County, but all of our futures depend on the success of the next generation. The BGC is critical for all of us, to ensure that young people who need our help get it and reach their true potential.”
MMC member Steve Jardine from Johnston's Toyota donated the use of two FJ Cruisers, and MMC’s instructors treated guests to truly memorable riding experiences on their brand-new off-roading trails.
“The event was a great success, with grown men playing like little boys with fast and expensive toys. All that fun while supporting youth programs in our community – what a way to spend an evening,” said event co-chair RJ Smith.
After their races, guests enjoyed a gourmet reception provided by MMC with specialty cocktails made with Bootlegger 21 vodka, donated by Prohibition Distillery, and were also able to compete in challenges on racing simulators!
This year’s Steering Committee, co-chaired by RJ Smith and Chris Masters, included BGC board members Sean Rieber, Jay Anthony, Chris Rice and Jonathan Rouis.
Masters reflected on the exceptional volunteer and staff efforts.
"The committee and the BGC team really focused on making the experience for our VIPs even better than year one,” said Masters. “I have received nothing but positive comments from attendees expressing how happy they were with the event, many of whom are already committed to returning in 2014 to benefit this great cause.”
RJ Smith’s Real Estate Solutions and Downes Tree Service sponsored this year’s event. All proceeds will support new and continuing Boys & Girls Club programs throughout Sullivan & Northern Orange Counties.