The Kids for Kids Foundation’s Racing for a Cure fundraiser returned to the Monticello Motor Club last week, blending a charitable mission with fast-paced driving experiences and raising over $1.2 million to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the families it serves.

The two-day event, held Thursday, Oct. 29, and Friday, Oct. 30, brought corporate sponsors, supporters and car enthusiasts together for a lineup of automotive experiences and fundraising activities. As of Nov. 3, the effort had raised $1,211,650 from 362 donors, exceeding its $1.1 million goal and last year’s record of approximately $940,000.

Hotaling Insurance Services President and Founder Bobby Hotaling was especially pleased with the turnout after rain forced organizers to reschedule the event from its original Sept. 27-28 dates. Hotaling Insurance Services has served as the lead sponsor since the effort’s inception.

“To reschedule for today and get the turnout, the weather we have for this is just tremendous,” Hotaling told the Democrat Thursday.

The two-day event kicked off with a VIP car show and an evening reception and dinner on Thursday, followed by a high-octane driving experience on Friday. Attendees took part in high-performance driving sessions, track-time competitions, professional instruction and hypercar hot laps, with teams competing against one another.

According to Hotaling, approximately 40 to 45 cars were on the grounds Thursday, with 72 to 75 drivers expected for Friday’s activities. More than 200 people were also expected at Thursday evening’s dinner and presentation, where organizers outlined the families supported by the fundraiser and the mission it upholds.

Above all, however, Hotaling said the main goal is raising money for St. Jude, which provides treatment to children battling serious illnesses while assisting families with expenses associated with intensive care, including housing, travel and food.

“If you have a sick child, you come out of pocket for no money at all,” Hotaling said. “The hospital takes care of everything [in helping patients and their parents].”

Hotaling also pointed out how the event offered businesses a unique opportunity to spend time with clients and prospective customers while supporting a cause that extends beyond the racetrack.

“It’s the best event you’ll ever go to,” Hotaling said. “More so, [it’s] the best event you’ll ever participate in.”