The M.C.C.R. is Country Star Mark Collie's annual star-studded charity event to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation and the American Diabetes Association, with the 1997 donations to go to the Vanderbilt Diabetes Research Center. Mark named one of this year's grants in honor of Mr. Leonard Esstman, a founding board member who passed away, and another, which will benefit summer medical students who plan to go on to do diabetes research, in honor of Loretta Lynn. The three part event features a concert at the Wildhorse Saloon in Nashville, an auction, and a "Legends" series car race the following day.

As expected, Collie snagged the checkered flag from the Grand Race. But Brooks and Dunn, always eager to put on a show, drove with reckless abandon through the turns. Turning the race into something of a high-speed demolition derby, B&D's custom cars got up close and personal, resulting in the automotive equivalent of a somersault, enabling Collie to surf away with the win.

What Faith Hill lacked in death-defying antics, she made up for in grace as she sped away with the win in the ladies race.

Paul Newman, no stranger to the racetrack himself, received an Epi Songwriter, signed by all celebrity drivers in appreciation for his efforts towards the event.

Grand Marshall Loretta Lynn received the Gibson Dove in Flight while fellow Grand Marshall Bill Elliott is now the proud owner of a Les Paul Catalina, made in Gibson's Custom*Art*Historic Division.

The event raised $412,000, with GMI products contributing $11,000 via the silent auction. One of the guitars was purchased by Tony George who owns Brickyard Indianapolis.

For more information on the event or the JDF and ADA, call event Chairperson Brenda Rose at 615-354-0532.