- Speedway Children’s Charities to partner with The Samantha and Kyle Busch Bundle of Joy Fund, the Kyle Larson Foundation, the Joey Logano Foundation and Greg Olsen’s HEARTest Yard to make a difference in the lives of children and families in the Carolinas
- The 16th annual Cook Out Catwalk for Causes will celebrate 11 Catwalk Champions, many of whom are facing their toughest battles, as they dazzle on the catwalk
- For tickets, sponsorship opportunities or additional information, visit www.speedwaycharities.org/events/charlotte/cook-out-catwalk-for-causes/
CONCORD, NC (Aug. 21, 2026) – A night filled with big names and even bigger hearts will take to the runway for the 16th annual Cook Out Catwalk for Causes on Wednesday, Oct. 6 at Ten Tenths Motor Club. Hosted by Speedway Children’s Charities (SCC), the inspiring evening will bring together NASCAR and NFL stars, community leaders and 11 remarkable children for a night celebrating courage, hope and joy.
SCC is partnering with The Samantha and Kyle Busch Bundle of Joy Fund, Kyle Larson Foundation, Joey Logano Foundation and Greg Olsen’s HEARTest Yard to shine a spotlight on children supported by each organization. The event continues the legacy established by Sherry Pollex and the Martin Truex Jr. Foundation in 2009. Over the past 15 years, Catwalk for Causes has raised more than $5.5 million, carrying forward Pollex’s vision of making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families across the Carolinas.
The enchanting night will be hosted by NASCAR analyst and Speedway Children’s Charities board member Adam Alexander, alongside motorsports veteran, driver, broadcaster and Speedway Children’s Charities board member Erin Evernham. At the heart of the evening will be the children, who will take center stage on the catwalk in outfits hand-selected by each child. Guests will also have opportunities to make a lasting impact through live and silent auctions, with proceeds benefiting the programs championed by SCC and its charity partners. To cap off the night, guests will enjoy a concert by country music artist and Kernersville, NC native, Chris Lane.
The NASCAR and NFL stars scheduled to join these tiny heroes include:
The Samantha and Kyle Busch Bundle of Joy Fund
Samantha and Lennix Busch, The Samantha and Kyle Busch Bundle of Joy Fund
Bubba and Amanda Wallace, NASCAR Cup Series driver No.23 for 23XI Racing
Kyle Larson Foundation
Kyle and Katelyn Larson, NASCAR Cup Series driver No. 5 for Hendrick Motorsports
Ricky and Madyson Stenhouse, NASCAR Cup Series driver No. 47 for Hyak Motorsports
Joey Logano Foundation
Joey and Brittany Logano, NASCAR Cup Series driver No. 22 for Team Penske
Austin Cindric, NASCAR Cup Series driver of the No. 2 for Team Penske
Greg Olsen’s HEARTest Yard
Greg and Kara Olsen, FOX Sports broadcaster and former Carolina Panther
Jonathan and Natalie Stewart, former Carolina Panther
Speedway Children’s Charities
Jessica Fickenscher, SCC National Managing Director and General Manager of Charlotte Motor Speedway
Max and Grace Reaves, Cook Out Restaurants
Greg Walter, President of Charlotte Motor Speedway
The 2025 Cook Out Catwalk for Causes raised more than $460,000, directly supporting organizations dedicated to improving the lives of children and families facing significant challenges. This year’s event will continue that momentum while celebrating the strength and resilience of the children at the heart of Catwalk.
A limited number of individual seats and table sponsorships are available. To purchase, contact SCC Charlotte Director, Taylor Kirby, tkirby@speedwaycharities.org.
DETAILS:
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities or additional information about the 2026 Catwalk for Causes, visit www.speedwaycharities.org/events/charlotte/cook-out-catwalk-for-causes/.
About Cook Out Catwalk for Causes
Cook Out Catwalk for Causes is an annual charitable fundraising event benefiting children in need across the Carolinas. Now in its 16th year, the event has raised nearly $5.5 million through the support of NASCAR and NFL personalities, corporate partners and generous donors. Continuing the legacy established by Sherry Pollex, the event creates unforgettable experiences for children while generating critical funding for organizations dedicated to improving young lives.
ABOUT SPEEDWAY CHILDREN’S CHARITIES:
At Speedway Children’s Charities, we believe every child deserves the chance to thrive—no matter the obstacles they face. SCC is a driving force for change, partnering with local organizations to meet the most pressing needs of children in communities across the country. From supporting kids battling illness to providing resources for those facing adversity at home or in school, our mission is rooted in action and compassion. Since 1982, we’ve distributed over $79 million in grants, ensuring that children in need have the support, care, and opportunities to build brighter futures.
