Boy surprises Hamlin at Fan Club Event

Richmond, VA (October 19, 2009) - Eleven year old, R. J. Fink from Ross County, Ohio, presented his 2009 winnings as a donation to Denny Hamlin's foundation last Sunday.  Fink really wowed Hamlin, driver of the FedEx #11 Sprint Cup car, at his annual fan club event.
 
“I wanted to donate my winnings to your Foundation,” Fink told Hamlin.  “I'm glad I can help.” 
 
Fink took second place at Ohio Valley Raceway in Jackson County, OH, in this year's Purple Plate Class.  He started racing Go-Karts at the age of 8 and comes from a long line of racers.  His Kart was fabricated by his grandfather, Richard "Pappy" Fink.  His younger brother, James, will be next to get into the drivers' seat.
 
Fink also presented Hamlin with a t-shirt from his racing team.  "You need to sign that for me," Hamlin requested of Fink. "I want your autograph so when you become famous I can show it off." 
 
Fink’s surprise donation will help the Foundation raise $10,000 to purchase new therapy equipment for the Children's Hospital of Richmond through the "Make It Happen" fundraising effort.  Pictures colored by children from the Hospital are on display at the Denny Hamlin Speed Wash in Midlothian, VA  and Fredericksburg, VA .  Donations can be made at both locations of the Denny Hamlin Speed Wash or online at www.dennyhamlinfoundation.org.  
 
The primary mission of the Denny Hamlin Foundation is to aid in raising awareness and funding for Cystic Fibrosis (CF) research and treatment and aiding children with other debilitating illnesses.