Northwest race group raises over $10k for Team Seattle!

There are many racing communities in the United States. For that matter, there are racing communities around the world but for one in the Pacific Northwest, the group spirit is exceptionally strong and for Daytona 2011 it really shone out!

What was this PRO3 decal all about?

Created in the early 2000s, PRO3 is a community of racers who compete regularly throughout the summer in the ICSCC championship. PRO3 drivers use modified E30 BMW 325i racecars that are designed to test both driving ability and set-up. PRO3 has grown over the years in numbers but a few traits have remained constant; friendship, camaraderie and a passion for excellence on and off the racetrack.

One week before Daytona an email was sent by one member – a volunteer with Team Seattle – to the group alias: “Hey folks, let’s raise $1000 for Team Seattle and we’ll get the PRO3 logo on the charitable tote board”. A ‘reply all’ email followed “why stop at $1000, what can we do for $3k and then $5k?” In the end a challenge was set to the group. Raise $5k and a PRO3 decal will go onto Car No.41 for the race. In addition, Team Seattle drivers will compete with you at a race this year and a private donor will match your $5k totaling $10k for the charity.

By the end of that first day the $1k was achieved. By the Wednesday before Daytona the $5k and subsequent match was hit and the team carried on donating with a final tally exceeding $11,000! This was fantastic result for Team Seattle and a testament to the character of PRO3 racers.

PRO3 drivers with Grand-Am Driver James Gue

PRO3 is growing in popularity from a fan and driver perspective. In 2010 the group was invited to support the NASCAR West race at Portland International Raceway where the racing from PRO3 was enjoyed by some more than the main event. In 2011 the invitation was extended again without hesitation. PRO3 has played host to many professional drivers looking for fun and a break from their pro commitments. Last year, 2009 GT Champion Leh Keen and Rolex GT and Contintental Tire driver James Gue competed with the group. James Clay from Bimmerworld has not only driven but is a sponsor of PRO3 as is Carlos Sparacio from TC Motorsports. The group is also the proving ground for drivers looking to make it to professional racing. 2007 PRO3 champion Ted Anthony Jr. is a regular Continental Tire GS and ST driver, as is Rick Edwards and in 2011 PRO3’s Dan Rogers will compete with Compass360 in the ST class.

The bond between PRO3, Team Seattle and now Grand-Am is growing and the charitable contributions mean not only are people having fun but they are making a difference.

Team Seattle would like to thank all of the PRO3 members who donated money for the 2011 Daytona race. Their contribution made a huge difference and epitomizes what both the charity and their group is all about.

To learn more about PRO3 Racing, visit their website or find them on Facebook.