Mark your calendars for Saturday, Sept. 7, for the 19th annual Seaside Le Mans – The Race for the Cape Cod Community. Since its inception in 2001, this annual event has raised over $6.5 million through sponsorships and matching gifts.
Beneficiaries of the 2019 race are Cape Wellness Collaborative, Children’s Cove, Cape Cod Healthcare, Heroes in Transition and Mass Audubon’s Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. All proceeds of the event are donated to The Cape Cod Foundation, which distributes 100 percent of the funds to the designated beneficiaries chosen for the year.
Following an opening ceremony at noon, which includes music, the National Anthem and a flyover, the main event will begin as thousands gather to watch this annual endurance race of European-style Formula One race karts, driven by local sponsors on a quarter-mile outdoor track around Mashpee Commons. But, racing isn’t the only activity at the annual Seaside Le Mans, which is free to attend.
“There’s something for everyone to do throughout the day,” said Kelsey Ellis, Event Director for the Davenport Companies. In addition to the racing action, there will be music, food and a new family fun zone, combined with the many shops and restaurants at Mashpee Commons, to provide every member of the family with something interesting to see or do.
The race beneficiaries will also be set up on the track infield with activities and information for attendees. “The goal of the event is not just to raise money for the community, but also to get the word out about the critical work these organizations are doing,” said Ellis.
Spectators can also lend a hand at the trackside volunteer bike build with the goal of building and donating children’s bicycles.
“Last year, volunteers built 240 bikes that went to 10 local, non-profit children’s organizations,” Ellis said. “This year, that goal is 300. No experience or tools are necessary, and all ages are welcome. Volunteer leaders will be on site to help you every step of the way with instructions.”
Additionally, the Cape Cod Healthcare Blood Mobile will be hosting a blood drive on the infield, Ellis added. This entire day, she said, really is all about philanthropy and giving back to the community. It’s not only an opportunity for race enthusiasts, but for the community at large to come out and spend the afternoon supporting a very worthwhile cause.
It’s fast, it’s fun, it’s family-friendly and it’s free! For more information on the Seaside Le Mans and all the race day action, visit seasidelemans.org.
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