(Kannapolis, NC; April 16, 2014) Fourteen-year-old NASCAR Whelen All American Series Limited Late Model driver Jake Ruggles dedicated his April 11th race at Hickory Motor Speedway in Hickory, NC to the Autism Society of North Carolina and to his brother Ryan. Jake, whose younger brother Ryan has Autism, is a long-time supporter of multiple Autism-awareness charities.
In 2014 Jake added the Autism Society of North Carolina logo, ‘Ryan’s Race’ and puzzle piece decals to his race car to dedicate a race to his brother in honor of Autism Awareness month. Jake again is raising awareness about Autism this year by running the Autism Society of North Carolina Logo and “Ryan’s Race” on his car during the month of April.
The event, Dine 4 Autism, is designed to raise awareness as well as funds. It will feature a variety of Triangle restaurants, from morning coffee shops to mid-day sandwich cafes, to full dining establishments and cupcake shops. The Triangle Chapters of the Autism Society of North Carolina is hosting this fundraiser in culmination with International Autism Awareness Month.
Jake and his family, who are also his race team, are from Kannapolis, NC. He is a multi-time winner in North Carolina Quarter Midget Association (NCQMA) competition. He recently began racing in the NASCAR Whelen All American Series after racing in the Allison Legacy Race Series for the last two years capturing the series Rookie of the Year title in 2013. Jake and his father will be at Tyler’s Taproom in Apex for the fundraiser, signing autographs and speaking with customers about what the Autism Society of NC does. “I’m excited to reach out to people about Autism Awareness and help spread awareness through my racing on and off the track.” Jake recently commented. “I am looking forward to meeting people at Tyler’s Taproom for the Dine 4 Autism charity event onApril 21st. I had a great time at the Dine 4 Autism Event last year and I am honored that the Autism Society of North Carolina has invited me back to be a part it.”
Leslie Welch, Leader Wake County Chapter, Autism Society of North Carolina, stated: When you think racing, you don’t automatically think Autism, but Jake Ruggles has set out to change that. Dine 4 Autism is very proud to have this amazing young man back helping us with our event this year. He proves that having autism in your family can define you in a positive way.
About The Autism Society of North Carolina:
For over 44 years, the Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) has worked to address areas of need and expand services for the autism community in North Carolina. ASNC is a statewide organization, supporting North Carolinians affected by autism. Every dollar that we raise stays within North Carolina, helping people who live and work in our local communities.
Our organization works to directly improve the lives of individuals and families affected by autism through advocacy, training and education, and direct services.
For more information about the Autism Society of North Carolina go to : https://www.autismsociety-nc.
About Jake Ruggles Racing:
Jake Ruggles Racing is a family owned and operated team based in Kannapolis, NC. Jake began racing quarter midgets when he was eight years old. He started competing in the Allison Legacy Race Series in 2013. After multiple Rookie of the Race Awards and top-five finishes, as well as a Hard-Charger Award, Jake was crowned 2013 Allison Legacy Race Series Rookie of the Year. He finished the season 3rd place overall in points. Jake finished the 2014 Allison Legacy Race Series Season 2nd Place in Championship points. Jake currently races his NASCAR Whelen All American Series Limited Late Model at Hickory Motor Speedway and will add a few additional tracks during the 2015 race season.
Jake Ruggles Racing sponsors include Finish Line Race Gear, Studio 7 Salon and Signsfast Superstore Kannapolis.
For more information about Jake Ruggles Racing, visit www.jakeruggles.com. Also be sure to follow Jake Ruggles Racing on facebook and on Twitter at @jakeruggles29.
