From a press release issued by Infineon Raceway:

Mario Andretti Helps Set Blood-Drive Record at Infineon Raceway

SONOMA, Calif. (IMMEDIATE RELEASE) – Race fans were treated to the joyride of their lives around the world-famous road course at Infineon Raceway on Friday, and they set a blood-drive record in the process.

Nearly 425 people braved rainy and windy conditions at the 4th annual Infineon Technologies High-Speed Blood Drive at Infineon Raceway to benefit the American Red Cross. Race fans who agreed to donate a point of blood were treated to a hot lap at speed around the 12-turn, 2.52-mile road course.

Moreover, 75 lucky people were given hot laps around the track by legendary driver Mario Andretti, the only driver in history to win races in five different decades, including the Daytona 500 and Indianapolis 500. This marked the third consecutive year Andretti has participated in the event.

“I always have a great time with this event, and at the same time, we’re able to help the American Red Cross. It’s a win-win for everyone,” said Andretti, who is also a spokesman for Infineon Technologies.

The event generated 140 pints of blood, which American Red Cross officials say will be a record for 2005.

“There is no doubt that when we look back on 2005 this will be best output we have for a one-day event in Northern California,” said Sara O’Brien, spokesperson for the American Red Cross-Northern California Region. “This event gets bigger every year and we are certainly very appreciative to all those who came out today and to Infineon Raceway for hosting this.”

The Infineon Technologies High Speed Blood Drive has generated 373 pints of blood over the last three years, saving 1,119 lives.

“This is the third year I’ve come out and it’s great. I always want to give blood but this event really makes me get up and do it,” said Stephen McCulloch, from Rohnert Park. “It’s so positive for the community and you get a lap around this unbelievable track.”

Race fans lined up nearly an hour before the start of the blood drive under rainy conditions, anxious to meet their favorite driver. Andretti not only spent the day giving fans laps around the track in a 2005 Audi, supplied by Niello Audi, he also signed autographs, took pictures and mingled with the fans. Other hot laps were given by instructors from the ESPN Russell Racing School, which is based an Infineon Raceway.

“I drove more than 300 miles for this today and I wasn’t disappointed,” said Kelly Taylor, from Kingsbury, located south of Fresno. “I had the time of my life.”

The raceway partnered with Infineon Technologies, 107.7 FM The Bone in San Francisco and Niello Audi on the event.