Ecclestone to co-chair Canada charity event
"Last year, we wanted to celebrate the return of Formula 1 to Montréal in a spectacular fashion and, through the introduction of our grand new tradition, we can say mission accomplished. The success of the first gala "The Grand Evening" was a great source of celebration for us and of course for the two foundations that we support," said François Dumontier, President of Octane Racing Group and President of the Grand Prix du Canada. "With the second edition coming up, we are now beginning what we can call a tradition, a very gratifying tradition. We have high hopes of once again making this event THE social gathering of the beginning of summer; an event that brings together the Montréal community along with prestigious guests of honor who are attending the Grand Prix du Canada, with all proceeds going to local charities."
Mr. Dumontier was also pleased with the fact that Mr. Bernard "Bernie" Ecclestone, President and CEO of Formula One Management, and the Honorable Michael Fortier, Vice-Chairman of RBC Capital Markets, had agreed to return as honorary co-chair of the event. "I sincerely want to thank them for accepting our invitation. Their support will greatly contribute to making this year's grand evening another great success."
"I am honored that François Dumontier and his team asked me to co-chair this year again The Grand Evening", has declared Mr. Bernard Ecclestone, President of Formula One Management. "This gala has proved last year that it was the very best way to open the weekend celebrations while supporting great causes. I will be glad to share this wonderful evening with the Formula 1 family and the Montréal business community."
"In June 2010, the Montréal Business Community responded with enthusiasm to the invitation sent by the Grand Prix of Canada, Bernie Ecclestone and myself. Once again this year, I invite all our leaders and all the generous Montrealers to come forward and celebrate with us in the heart of Montréal the 32nd edition of the most important sporting event in Canada, and by the same token give their support to two very significant hospital foundations by attending the gala. Together, let's make the second edition of The Grand Evening another resounding success," commented the Honorable Michael Fortier, Vice-Chairman of RBC Capital Markets and honorary co-chair of the event.
The 2010 edition of "The Grand Evening", was held just a few hours before Formula 1's first laps on Friday at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, was organized in Montréal by Octane Racing Group and entirely produced locally. More than 850 guests, including drivers and management of the 12 teams competing in the Formula 1 World Championship attended among those F1 drivers Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, Mark Webber, Nico Rosberg, Jarno Trulli, Pedro de la Rosa, Sébastien Buemi, Nick Heidfeld, Nico Hulkenberg, and Heikki Kovalainen.
"The Grand Evening" is an official activity of the 2011 Grand Prix du Canada and is presented in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz Canada. Tickets for the 6 pm cocktail, the 7:30 pm dinner and the evening are currently being offered at $1,000 each. Table for 10 will cost $10,000. You can obtain more information by visiting www.circuitgillesvilleneuve.ca or by contacting the management at the Grand Prix du Canada at 514 350-4731.