California Speedway and San Bernardino County Fire are teaming up to raise money during the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series event at the speedway this weekend to benefit the American Red Cross relief efforts for the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

This "Race for Relief" effort will replace the "Fill the Boot" drive which was originally scheduled for this weekend to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association.  California Speedway and San Bernardino County Fire have agreed to move the "Fill the Boot" drive to the February NASCAR race weekend at California Speedway in 2006.

Donations of cash or check can be made at the following Gate Entrances at California Speedway: Gates 10, 12, 14 and 16.  Firefighters from throughout San Bernardino County, along with the Inland Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross volunteers, will be collecting at the gates.

Radio station KFRG 95.1 FM will get the relief drive started Friday morning during a live broadcast from the speedway starting at 6:00 a.m. from the Miller Lite stage inside Gate 16.

"This tragedy in the Gulf Coast states is unfathomable.  We are confident we can raise money through this effort to assist in some small way.  Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone during this tragedy," California Speedway President Gillian Zucker said.  "Our efforts here are in addition to the announcement earlier today by our parent company International Speedway Corporation, which committed $1 million in money and services.

"I am also thankful for the efforts of the local firefighters who are willing to give of their time for this, and for the Muscular Dystrophy Association that understands the need to come to the aid of our fellow Americans at this difficult time," Zucker continued.  "I'm also thankful to our legions of race fans who are coming together to raise money for the relief effort."

This weekend's NASCAR tripleheader kicks off tomorrow with the NASCAR Grand National Division, West Series Relocate Here 200 presented by the County of San Bernardino at 8:00 p.m.  Saturday's Ameriquest 300 NASCAR Busch Series race rolls off at 5:35 p.m. and Sunday's SONY HD 500 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race will take the green flag at 5:10 p.m.

For additional information, please contact the Inland Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross at 909-986-6651.