Newgarden named honorary chair for 2017 Rev charity event

Josef Newgarden

Without question, Verizon IndyCar Series driver Josef Newgarden will be hungry to win the Indianapolis 500 and INDYCAR Grand Prix when he arrives at Indianapolis Motor Speedway with Team Penske in May.

But the organizers of Rev presented by Fifth Third Bank – the 3,000-person strolling food event that kicks off the month of May at IMS – are betting he'll be hungry for even more than that. Today, Rev announced that Newgarden will serve as the fourth honorary chair for the popular May 6 party, which will include food from more than 60 restaurants, multiple live bands and showcase Verizon IndyCar Series drivers and Indianapolis' celebrated culinary scene.

"It's a great honor to be partnering with Rev this year for a cause that does so much for the community of Indianapolis," said Newgarden, who will drive for Team Penske this year. "The growth of this event in such a short time is a testament to the hard work everyone puts in to support Methodist Health Foundation. I'm really looking forward to helping the event continue the upward trend."

Newgarden follows INDYCAR driver James Hinchcliffe, who was Rev's honorary driver chair last year and reigning Verizon IndyCar Series champion Simon Pagenaud, who served in 2015. Four-time champion and 2008 Indianapolis 500 winner Scott Dixon served as the honorary chairman of the inaugural event in 2014.

As a partnership between Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital and IMS, Rev raises funds that support Indiana University Health statewide trauma programs including medical services for drivers and patrons at the IU Health Emergency Medical Center on the IMS grounds.

"The relationship of IU Health and Methodist Health Foundation with IMS is over 100 years old and great events like Rev help make our partnership stronger than ever while ensuring that both drivers and fans continue to receive top-notch care," said Doug Boles, IMS president. "Josef is a fantastic addition to this year's Rev team and will ensure the event continues to grow and serve as an excellent month of May kickoff."

For tickets and additional information about the event, visit RevIndy.org.