Tuesday, May 13, 2008

By Brian Liskai

FREMONT, Ohio - Alex Burkett has always been willing to help racers. Whether 
it was financial aid through his place of business, or simply a pat on the 
back or words of encouragement, Burkett was there with support. Now, his 
family is looking for that same support from the racing community for the 
gentle man with a big heart.

Burkett, who recently retired from Crown Battery, long a supporter of area 
racing through team, track and series sponsorships, is battling pancreatic 
cancer. He has been in various hospitals the past several months, unable to 
attend the races he so loves.

When David Harrison won the 410 sprint feature at Fremont Speedway on April 
26, he dedicated the victory to his father-in-law.

"He has been so supportive of me and a lot of other racers...I just hope 
everyone prays for him and remembers him," said Harrison.

Burkett's grandson, Josh Harrison, also races 410 sprints at Fremont.

Burkett's son, Jim, said his dad wouldn't want people to feel sorry for him.

"He would rather they help others. That gave us the idea for the 'Racers 
Racing For the Cure.' We are planning a lot of activities to benefit the 
American Cancer Society and the American Red Cross," said Jim. "Dad has 
helped so many racers over the years...we know the racing community will 
show their support of him."

The Alex Burkett Honorary Blood Drive will be held in the Flower Building at 
the Sandusky County Fairgrounds from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, June 8.

"Every day, cancer patients just like dad depend on blood donations. We're 
hoping the racers and fans will step up and donate," said Jim.

To donate blood, you have to be at least 17-years-old, weigh at least 110 
pounds, be in general good health and provide a valid state photo ID.

There will also be a 50/50 raffle that day and a barbecue at the fairgrounds 
sponsored by the Davis Brothers Racing, MSD Racing and East Side Great Scot 
Supermarket. There will be a silent auction and raffles including items from 
NASCAR drivers. You may also purchase tickets for the grand prize drawing of 
four days and three nights in Las Vegas (trip includes air fare and hotel).

The family and friends of Alex Burkett and Harrison Racing will also take 
part in the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life in Fremont's Conner 
Park on June 20. Sponsors are needed for the team.

The two Burger King restaurant locations in Fremont will also hold an Alex 
Burkett Day, Tuesday, June 17. Special flyers have been printed, and if you 
bring one of them into either of the two Fremont restaurants on June 17, 
Burger King will donate a portion of  the purchase price of your meal to the 
Racers Racing for the Cure.

Racers Racing for the Cure culminates at Fremont Speedway on Burger King 
Night, Saturday, June 21. Drivers will go through the stands seeking 
donations. And, the grand prize drawing will be held for the trip to Las 
Vegas!

"Dad has the 1965 Fremont Speedway pace car. We're trying to get it ready to 
be at the track that night," added Jim.

To make a donation or get involved with the Racers Racing for the Cure, 
contact Jim Burkett at 419-463-0402 or email him at sprintcarfan10@yahoo.com