Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius

June 23, 2006

National Guard troops, families to receive day at the races
Sebelius announces donation of 1,000 tickets on big race weekend

Members of the Kansas National Guard and their families will have a chance to see races at the Kansas Speedway next weekend for free, thanks to the donation of 1,000 tickets, Governor Kathleen Sebelius announced today.

Sebelius said the donation of tickets by Kansas Speedway and by Target will allow members of the Guard who have recently returned from deployments, along with others who have been recognized for their service, to see the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race on July 1 and the IRL IndyCar Series race on July 2.

“We ask a lot of our men and women in the Guard and their families. These tickets are just a small way to show our appreciation for their service to our state and nation,” said Sebelius.

Kansas Speedway is donating 375 tickets to the O'Reilly Auto Parts 250 on Saturday and another 375 tickets to the Kansas Lottery Indy 300 on Sunday.

“I can’t think of anything more American than celebrating Independence Day with soldiers and their families at Kansas Speedway,” Speedway President Jeff Boerger said. “Auto racing is an event that is truly American, so knowing that some of our brave soldiers and their families will be here for it all will make the weekend even more spectacular.”

Target, which will open a new store in The Legends near the Speedway in October, has donated 250 tickets to Saturday’s race.

“The commitment and sacrifices Guard members and their families make are tremendous,” said Rick Wilkins, Group Director, Target. “We are pleased to support an effort that allows Guard members and their families to enjoy an afternoon together.”

The tickets are being distributed to soldiers and airmen by The Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting and will allow a member of the Kansas National Guard and up to three family members to attend a race.

“It’s nice to know that those in the communities you serve appreciate you,” said Bunting, the adjutant general. “I want to express my thanks to the Kansas Speedway and Target for showing their support for the Kansas National Guard through this generous gift.”

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