Honda Canada to sponsor Paul Tracy for Canadian IndyCar rounds

Honda Canada Inc. announced today it will sponsor Canadian Paul Tracy’s car for the third consecutive year, and will support Make-A-Wish Canada at the Honda Indy Toronto, set to run July 9 to 10 at Exhibition Place and the Edmonton Indy from July 22 to 24 at the City Centre Airport.

A native of Scarborough, Ontario, and 2003 Champ Car World Series champion, Tracy is one of the most successful and exciting drivers in the history of open-wheel racing. For the 2011 racing season, Tracy will pilot the #8 Make-A-Wish Canada/Dragon Racing/Honda/Dallara/Firestone car.

“At Honda, we believe in ‘The Power of Dreams’ as a way of thinking that drives us forward and is based on the visionary principles of our founder, Soichiro Honda," said Jerry Chenkin, executive vice president of Honda Canada Inc. “In accordance with that philosophy, we are thankful that we can help realize the dreams of Canadian children living with life-threatening medical conditions through our continued association with Paul Tracy and Make-A-Wish Canada."

There will be many opportunities for fans to donate to Make-A-Wish Canada at both the Honda Indy Toronto and the Edmonton Indy, and Honda Canada will match all donations dollar-for-dollar. Last year, more than $112,000 was raised in support of Make-A-Wish Canada, and the team is committed to surpassing that amount in 2011.

“At Make-A-Wish, our primary focus is granting magical wishes of courageous children in need across the country," said Jennifer Ritter, CEO, Make-A-Wish Canada. “Our mission is made possible through our strong partners and we are extremely grateful for the generous support of Honda Canada."

Fans from Canada and abroad will watch with excitement as Tracy contests his 19th race in Toronto. He has finished in the top-10 a total of 11 times with eight top-5 showings, five podium performances, two wins (1993 and 2003) and one pole. At the Edmonton Indy, Tracy recorded a best finish of sixth the past two years and posted his best start (ninth) in 2009.

Tracy says he is looking forward to returning to and competing on his home turf. “I’m excited to be back and to show the fans what I’ve got," said Tracy, a proud father of two. “It’s important for me to partner with Honda Canada, without which my support of Make-A-Wish Canada would not be possible."