VERO BEACH — The Sun Up Center for Individuals with Special Needs is revving up for its second annual signature fundraiser the Vero Road Rally Magnifique (VRRM) scheduled for Saturday, April 9 from 2 to 7 pm. The 2011 Vero Road Rally Magnifique is limited to 100 vehicles; first come-first served and will be held rain or shine. A European-style road rally, the fundraiser will have automobile enthusiasts competing in a “casual afternoon drive” where they can take in the beauty of their surroundings while following specific rally directions. There are two people per vehicle, a driver and a navigator, although additional passengers may be beneficial.
All participants in the vehicle are known as a team and each team’s goal is to score points at various checkpoints along the route to be eligible to win prizes after the rally. The rally is designed in such a way that no matter what you are driving, the car does not hold the competitive edge. VRRM Chair Karl Steene of Grand Bank and Trust is working with committee member Dr. Rob Callery on the new rally route which will take in scenic beauty and local history in a rural setting.
“The Vero Road Rally Magnifique is Sun Up’s primary fundraiser and we still have many great sponsorship opportunities available for this unique charitable event,” said Sun Up Center Executive Director Dennis Bartholomew.
This year’s Honorary VRRM Chairperson is Brian Redman, World Sports Car champion and winner of Daytona 24 Hour and Sebring 12 Hour races. Honorary Rally Masters for the second year are Dawn (the voice of Polo) and James Redman who will provide Finish Line Party attendees with LeMans movie snippets which his dad, Brian, filmed with Derek Bell and Steve McQueen.
The special Finish Line Party guest is Derek Bell MBE, World Sports Car champion, Daytona 24 Hour winner and 24 Hours of LeMans winner.
The VRRM Finish Line and Party this year will be in the Sun Aviation Hanger at the Vero Beach Municipal Airport. Rally teams and Finish Line Party attendees will have the opportunity to view many rare, unusual, exotic and antique cars, unique and antique planes, bid at the live auction on extraordinary trips like the 24-hour LeMans race with side trip to either Paris or Loire, a trip to Spain, fine custom jewelry and other great items. There will also be great car music from the 60’s, hearty hors d’oeuvres and a VRRM awards ceremony.
Proceeds will benefit The Sun Up Center, which provides programs, services and residential opportunities to individuals with special needs.
The Rally registration fee is $250 per vehicle for a driver and a navigator and $125 per person for each additional passenger.
Registration is through Friday, April 8 and forms are available at The Sun Up Center office at 2455 5th Street S.W., Vero Beach or online at www.sunupofir.org.
Finish Line Party only tickets are $125 per person and anyone wishing to receive an invitation to attend may call 772-770-6626 or Email dennisb@sunupofir.org.
For more information on sponsorships, registration or The Sun Up Center, call Dennis Bartholomew at 772-770-6626 or visit www.sunupofir.org.