This past August, tragedy struck in IndyCar, when Justin Wilson was involved in a fatal accident at Pocono Raceway. It marked the second death in as many months in professional motorsports, with Jules Bianchi passing away the month previous due to injuries he suffered in 2014. In Bianchi’s case, it was the first death related to an on-track accident in F1 since Ayrton Senna’s in 1994; for Wilson, the first since Dan Wheldon in 2011.
Earlier this week, auctions were set up on eBay to support Wilson’s family. Included amongst the assorted racing paraphernalia are two rare GTAcademy-related items.
The first is a watch worn by 2011 champion Jann Mardenborough at the 2015 24 Hours of Le Mans. A TAG Heuer Carrera, the classic watch has a black-titanium case, alligator straps, and a custom NISMO decal on the underside. The case is also signed by the man himself. The auction is located here.
The other item is, more accurately, an experience. The auction winner – and one lucky friend – will get a day at Silverstone experiencing the same Race Camp that GT Academy finalists do. You’ll meet the instructors, drive the real cars on track, use the simulators, and even meet with a racing psychologist. The event happens in March 2016, and also includes a PS3 and a copy of Gran Turismo 6, though does not include travel and accommodations). That auction is here.
Not only are these two auctions very unique, the money raised goes to a good cause: 100% of the proceeds go to the Graham Rahal Foundation, which is supporting the Wilson Children’s fund. Both auctions end on Monday, October 12.
To view the rest of the items up for auction, click here. Lastly, If you’re looking to donate directly to Wilson’s family, you can do so here.
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I really would buy something to support this, but I’m too broke…
really nice to see the humanitarian side of a company, it says a lot about their values
Awesome to see the racing community supporting a family during such loss. Bid high!