Mon, 5 Sep 2005, 01:41 PM GM Racers Make Annual Stop at Riley Hospital For Children

Courtesy of Jeff Romack

INDIANAPOLIS -- For the sixth straight year, drivers from the GM Racing program made their annual stop at the world renowned Riley Hospital for Children on Thursday, Sept. 1. Signing autographs, and visiting with the kids and their families were Greg Anderson, Jason Line, Erica Enders, Dave Connolly, Jim Yates, Morgan Lucas, Cory McClenathan, Dale Creasy and Ron Krisher. It is the third time this season that the GM Racing contingent has spread good cheer at a children's hospital in conjunction with a locally held national event. All of the children who participated in today's visit received a goody bag from GM Racing and autographed photos from the drivers.

"We always look forward to visiting Riley Hospital for Children," said Fred Simmonds, GM Group Manager of Drag Racing. "The drivers are just great with the kids and every year they ask, 'when are we going back to Riley Hospital?' They really enjoy seeing the kids, their families and the staff, and it's something we will continue to do in the future. Over the years we've made some good friends at Riley, and this visit has become a special part of our U.S. Nationals race weekend and our race season. We hope that everyone at Riley enjoys the visit as much as we do."

Riley Hospital for Children is Indiana's only comprehensive children's hospital, with pediatric specialists in every field of medicine and surgery. Riley is committed to providing the highest quality care to children in a compassionate, family-centered environment. Riley is a national leader in cutting edge research and medical education, ensuring health care excellence for children for generations to come. Riley provides medical care to all Indiana children, regardless of their family's ability to pay.

"This is one of the neatest things we get to do," said Ron Krisher. "I'm telling you what, this is the best thing that General Motors has come up with. I hope we continue it, expand it, go to other places and visit with as many kids as we can. There's nothing like it. My eyes light up as much as theirs do and I know the other drivers enjoy it as much as I do."