Racing for Kids helps the Real Heroes

By Brennie on March 28, 2015

Neil Alberico (left) and Zach Veach (photo Brennie / RSEN)

St. Petersburg, Fla. — They make their living driving 200 miles per hour so you know they are strong hearted. Drivers on the Mazda Road to Indy have to be stoic in the face of adversity, not much can make these guys flinch. On Thursday of this week we found a weakness the drivers heart’s melt for. The kids at All Children’s Hospital St. Petersburg.

Founded in 1989, Racing for Kids has been drawing awareness to focus public attention and funding on the health care of America’s most precious human resource, children. Since it’s inception Racing for kids $6 million has been raised or donated in the name of Racing for Kids.

This year the week of the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg drivers Zach Veach, Neil Alberico and Spencer Pigot made the trip to All Children’s Hospital.

It was a joy to watch the smiles, and laughter of the kids who at the moment are limited to the confines of a hospital room get excited when a professional athlete is eager to take the time out of their day to give them one on one attention. The drivers gave the kids each an autographed hat and a goodie bag donated by Humana.

Some little cutie is getting a surprise (photo Brennie / RSEN)

Neil Alberico and Zach Veach have goodies for Kaelyn (photo Brennie / RSEN)

Zach Veach, who is slated to drive Indy Car this year, was able spend the most time children. Veach naturally moved through the hospital making the kids laugh and smile as easily as he navigates the race course.

“It shows you how lucky you are in many ways, and this is a great way for us to give back and reach the kids, you know a few years ago we could have been in the same position,” said Veach. Just bring a little bit of light into what they are going through I think it really sets the tone for the weekend, and I’m lucky to be a part of Racing for Kids.”

Niel Alberico, the winner of today’s Pro Mazda race, said of his hospital visit, “It’s great! I’m sure they will be able to hear us from their bedroom window tomorrow when we get started. The City of St Pete is great and the All Children’s Hospital Foundation with Racing for Kids just to show up here for half an hour and make their day is Awesome!”