The Kyle Larson Foundation has dedicated its annual event grant to the SherryStrong Foundation, celebrating the legacy of Sherry Pollex ahead of the upcoming Catwalk for a Cause gala. This move, centered around Kyle Larson’s donation, marks a renewed partnership between Larson’s foundation and the charitable fashion event.
Sherry Pollex, remembered as the longtime companion of former Cup Series champion Martin Truex Jr., survived cancer twice and made a lasting impact before her passing in 2023. She founded Catwalk for a Cause—a fashion event where children battling illnesses share the stage with well-known athletes. Since its inauguration in 2009, the gala has generated over $5 million to support children’s health initiatives.
Larson’s ongoing support for children through Catwalk for a Cause
Kyle Larson and his wife, Katelyn, have been prominent participants in past Catwalk for a Cause events, joining other celebrities to walk the runway alongside children. In anticipation of this year’s event on September 16, the Hendrick Motorsports driver has formalized a substantial contribution to the foundation in memory of Sherry Pollex, highlighting his dedication to furthering her mission.
“Katelyn and I have always enjoyed participating in Catwalk for a Cause. It is one of our favourite nights and such a privilege to walk the runway with the most amazing kids. To honor the heart and soul behind catwalk, The Kyle Larson Foundation will donate it’s grant to Sherrystrong, to further carry on the vision and legacy of Sherry(Pollex),”
he said in a statement via Instagram/Kyle Larson Foundation. —Kyle Larson, NASCAR Driver
The gala is receiving additional financial encouragement from initiatives like Kyle and Samantha Busch’s Bundle of Joy Fund. Speedway Children’s Charities is coordinating this year’s production, strengthening the event’s outreach and support for children in need.
Kyle Larson prepares for Iowa Speedway race
While the focus remains on philanthropy, Kyle Larson is also gearing up for his return to Iowa Speedway on Sunday, August 3. After earning the pole position in last season’s event but missing out on victory, Larson is aiming for a better finish this year. Fans eager to see the action can tune in to watch the race live on USA and HBO Max at 3:30 PM Eastern.
Reflecting on the Indianapolis loss to Bubba Wallace
Recently, Kyle Larson shared his thoughts on his Brickyard 400 defeat to Bubba Wallace, acknowledging that he was unable to overtake Wallace during the race. Larson pointed out the decisive advantage held by the inside lane and the challenges posed by track position at Indianapolis.
“There’s nothing you can do here (at Indianapolis Motor Speedway) to pass, so no, I don’t really think there was anything I could do differently….On the second restart, he brought the pace down a little bit slower, so I needed to be first gear. It was kind of the same thing with me last year – he had the preferred lane on the inside and it’s really hard to beat that,”
he said via NBC Sports. —Kyle Larson, NASCAR Driver
Despite beginning outside the top ten and opting to remain on the track during Stage 2 pit stops, Larson kept himself in contention. However, Bubba Wallace maintained his lead amid uncertain fuel strategies and multiple overtime restarts. Even with the defeat, Larson earned 47 points at the event, his highest since securing a win at Kansas Speedway, leaving him just 15 points shy of season leader and HMS teammate, Chase Elliott.
The importance of honoring Sherry Pollex and future impacts
Kyle Larson’s gesture is not just a tribute to Sherry Pollex but a meaningful extension of her vision, aiming to uplift children and families affected by illness through the SherryStrong Foundation and Catwalk for a Cause. With this heightened commitment from Larson, along with support from other notable figures and organizations, the annual fashion gala is poised to expand its reach and impact within the racing and charitable communities. The event’s continued success honors Pollex’s inspiring legacy, helping ensure that children battling health challenges receive vital encouragement and resources in the years ahead.
