In a record-breaking kickoff to Memorial Day weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway, the 44th annual Speedway Children’s Charities (SCC) Gala presented by Sonic Automotive, EchoPark Automotive and Sonic Powersports set a new bar with more than $1.8 million raised on Wednesday night, reinforcing a longstanding commitment to helping children in need across the Charlotte region.

The black-tie affair, held at the luxurious Ten Tenths Motor Club, brought together leaders from across motorsports and the greater Charlotte community for its largest fundraising event of the year. NASCAR analysts Adam Alexander and Clint Bowyer served as emcees for the evening, which included silent and live auctions and a call to give that helped raise the record-setting total.

“Tonight, we’re going to raise some money, but it’s about so much more than that,” Speedway Children’s Charities Chairman Marcus Smith told the sold-out venue. “Every dollar we raise will go directly to deserving organizations who are on the front lines making a meaningful difference in the lives of children in need. That’s the real reason we’re here, to support those organizations and their impactful work.”

Driving the point home, SCC Board Member Molly Grantham introduced three children representing organizations -- Bee Mighty, Exceptional Children’s Assistance Center and West Blvd. Ministries -- SCC supports and shared their emotional stories.

Guests were also treated to an elegant plated dinner from renowned chef and SCC supporter Bruce Moffett, followed by an electric performance by GRAMMY Award-winning country music group The Band Perry, capping off a night filled with generosity, entertainment and unforgettable memories.

Since its founding in 1982 by Speedway Motorsports, Speedway Children’s Charities has remained steadfast in its mission: to care for children in educational, financial, social and medical need in collaboration with partner organizations across the U.S. Across its 11 chapters nationwide, SCC has distributed more than $79 million to thousands of organizations dedicated to improving the lives of children.

For more information about Speedway Children’s Charities or to donate, visit www.speedwaycharities.org.