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Racing for Rare Diseases at Honda Indy Toronto

Updated: Aug 27, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Orangeville, ON, July 17, 2023 - Eric Kunz, a talented 20-year-old race car driver from Orangeville, Ontario, made an impression at the recent Honda Indy Toronto, participating in the FEL Motorsports Sports Car Championship Canada (SCCC), TCA Class. In his first season racing in cars, Eric showcased his skill and determination, securing impressive finishes throughout the weekend, marking a significant milestone in his budding career.

FEL SCCC TCA car number 25 driven by Eric Kunz
Eric Kunz in his Honda Civic Si at Honda Indy Toronto. Photo credit: Saskia Orr.

The Honda Indy Toronto, a prestigious motorsports festival, celebrated its 35th edition this year, attracting top-tier racing teams and drivers from around the world. The FEL Motorsports SCCC, in which Eric competed, was one of the supporting race series at this thrilling event. This season’s SCCC grid consists of three internationally recognized classes: GT4, TCR, and TCA. The race course, set on the streets of Toronto, spanned 2.874 kilometers (1.786 miles) and featured 11 challenging turns.

Eric Kunz celebrates a second place finish at Honda Indy Toronto.
Eric Kunz, and his father, Matt Kunz in the pits at Honda Indy Toronto. Photo credit: Ellen Sanders

Eric demonstrated remarkable composure as he navigated the narrow circuit, often contending with the faster classes overtaking him. Despite the intense competition and minimal room for

error, Eric showcased his talent and adaptability. Over the course of the weekend, he secured an impressive fourth-place finish in the first race, followed by a third-place finish in the second race. Eric's remarkable performance culminated in a second-place finish in the final race.

















Reflecting on his achievements, Eric expressed, "It is surreal to be standing on the podium at Honda Indy, and an absolute honor to share the stage with James Vance and Trevor Hill [for both podiums]."

Eric Kunz on the podium at Honda Indy Toronto.
Eric Kunz celebrates on the podium at Honda Indy Toronto.

In addition to his racing pursuits, Eric has launched an inspiring initiative called Driven Living, a Canadian incorporated not-for-profit organization, harnessing the power and popularity of motorsport to raise awareness and funds for rare diseases. As a rare disease patient himself, Eric's personal experiences have motivated his commitment to driving change in the healthcare system. With approximately 1 in 12 Canadians impacted by rare diseases, Eric aspires to raise awareness and provide support for those navigating the challenges of healthcare. Eric is also a SickKids’ Patient Ambassador and has an enormous amount of gratitude for all that the hospital has done.


Driven Living will initially focus its fundraising efforts on supporting SickKids. The kickoff to fundraising activities was at the Honda Indy Toronto where the Driven Living Draw for SickKids launched. This prize draw features enticing rewards, including a grand prize of a pair of tickets to the highly anticipated Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix 2023, along with return airfare on Flair Airlines. Additional prizes include return airfare to any destination served by Flair Airlines and eBay Motors gift cards.


Only 5,000 tickets are available for this draw, and they are selling fast! The Driven Living Draw for SickKids tent will be located in the FEL paddock at the Labour Day Sprints, and also at Drive Festival, both held at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park. Additional pop-up locations will be announced throughout the summer. Tickets can also be purchased online. The prize draw is scheduled for September 11, 2023. For detailed information on Driven Living and to participate in the prize draw, visit www.drivenliving.ca.


Eric would like to extend his gratitude to his sponsors: Stouffville Honda, Rosewood Marketing, and Wrap Werks. Their contributions have been instrumental in his racing journey and the establishment of Driven Living.

 

For media inquiries, interview requests, or further information, please contact:


Sharon Kunz

519-939-6916

press@drivenliving.ca


Click here to connect/follow on social media.

 


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