Former F1 and Indy car driver Eliseo Salazar is working to raise funds for the victims of the recent devastating earthquake in Chile by organizing a major charity auction at the end of the month.
The 55-year-old, who started 27 grands prix from 1981-1983 and is the only Chilean ever to race in the Formula 1 World Championship, is working with other famous athletes from his country, including soccer star Ivan Zamorano and tennis star Fernando Gonzalez, to collect signed sporting memorabilia. The A Correr Por Los Ninos (Racing for the Kids) auction will be held March 26.
The earthquake, which struck on Feb. 27, is rated as the fifth-largest worldwide since 1900, is believed to have affected over two million people, with a major humanitarian effort under way. The quake measured 8.8 on the Richter scale, and also triggered tsunamis in the Pacific Ocean.
"The scope of the devastation in Chile is unimaginable," said Salazar. "So many people need help and the aim is to raise enough to make a real difference to the effort to rebuild the lives that have been destroyed by the earthquake."
For further information, visit www.eliseo.com.