RENO, NV--August 13, 2013: The last retail 2014MY Ford Shelby GT500 convertible auctioned by Ford Motor Company to benefit the Brain Injury Association of America fetched a whopping $500,000 at the inaugural Hot August Nights Auction Presented by Barrett-Jackson in Reno, Nev.
“It was thrilling to watch the bidding unfold”
On Saturday, Aug. 10, Don Damon of Great Bend, Kan., purchased the Shelby in a spirited bidding war, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the BIAA. Parnelli Jones, 1963 Indy 500 winner and advocate for the charity, cheered on the competition. Damon can choose any interior, exterior and stripe color combination offered by Ford on the 2014 Shelby. Additionally, Jones will sign the car.
"It was thrilling to watch the bidding unfold," said Steve Ling, North America car marketing manager for Ford. "The moment showed the power of a great charity and a great car, and the tremendous generosity of the Damon family and our friends at Barrett-Jackson."
Jones was introduced to BIAA when his son, Page Jones, suffered a severe brain injury during a racing accident. "It's my 80th birthday and I can't imagine a better present," says Jones. "We worked hard to help Page recover from his injury, but we couldn't have done it alone. The BIAA helped and this funding will go on to aid so many who have suffered similar injuries."
"We at the BIAA are overcome with gratitude," says Susan H. Connors, president and CEO. "This Shelby GT500 sale provides funding for research, treatment and education to help the 3.5 million Americans who suffer from traumatic brain injuries."
The vehicle is scheduled to be delivered to Damon by year's end.
About the Brain Injury Association of America
The Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) is the country's oldest and largest nationwide brain injury advocacy organization. Our mission is to advance brain injury prevention, research, treatment, and education.
