KYNG and Panther Racing Recognize the Troops

MEDIA ADVISORY: Kentucky National Guard teams up with Panther Racing to recognize troops

CONTACT: Lt. Col. Kirk Hilbrecht, 502-352-8008

WHO: Kentucky National Guard and Panther Racing
WHAT: IndyCar experience
WHEN: 12-4 p.m., Saturday, September 26, 2009
WHERE: Kentucky Air National Guard Base, 1101 Grade Lane, Louisville, Ky.

Louisville, Ky. -- The Kentucky National Guard and Panther Racing are teaming up to recognize Soldiers and Airmen for a job well done!

Known for its world class IndyCar racing exploits, Panther Racing will treat Kentucky Army and Air National Guard troops on a once in a lifetime experience in a tandem-seat ride in a full-fledged IndyCar down the runway at the Air National Guard Base in Louisville.

The privately-funded program is designed to recognize the sacrifices made by Kentucky's Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen. More than 12,000 Kentucky National Guard troops have been deployed since September 11, 2001 to fight the Global War on Terror.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for our Soldiers and Airmen to ride along with a world class team, Panther Racing," said Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini, adjutant general for Kentucky. "We share many of the same attributes as Panther Racing, the technology, the adrenaline in particular, so it was only natural that we pair up for this once in a lifetime experience."

The event will run from noon until 4 p.m. Interest media should arrive at least a half hour early to process through security at the gate. A photo ID is required.