The 38th annual Speedway Children's Charities Gala sponsored by Sonic Automotiveand Speedway Motorsports, Inc., a fundraising event featuring many of NASCAR’s most prominent personalities, generated a record-setting $1.2 million—the first time in history that the gala has generated more than $1 million.

Special honors were bestowed upon 12-time NASCAR Cup Series champion team owner Rick Hendrick during the black-tie dinner and auction hosted by FOX's Adam Alexander and Shannon Spake.

"We are very blessed to have enjoyed so much success, and it's all because of our sponsors and supporters. Thanks to their record-setting generosity, we will be able to make an incredible impact on the lives of many deserving children,” Executive Director of the Charlotte Chapter of Speedway Children's Charities Lisa Starnes said.

The night was designed to honor Hendrick, a 2017 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee. Since Hendrick Motorsports debuted in 1984, the team has celebrated more than 300 race victories across NASCAR's top three series. Additionally, Hendrick joined Speedway Children's Charities Founder Bruton Smith and Sonic Automotive President and CEO Scott Smith in donating $100,000 each to the auction.

Other NASCAR dignitaries who attended the gala include Chad Knaus, the crew chief for Jimmie Johnson's No. 48 Hendrick-owned team, as well as longtime Hendrick crew chief and NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee Ray Evernham, and legendary team owner Felix Sabates.

Since Bruton Smith founded Speedway Children's Charities in 1982, the organization has awarded $53 million to other nonprofits across the country. Speedway Children's Charities are operated by Speedway Motorsports, Inc.

For more information on Speedway Children's Charities or to see how to volunteer or make a donation, visit speedwaycharities.org.