Seaside Le Mans 2025: Racing for a Cause on Cape Cod
The 24th annual Seaside Le Mans race took place in Mashpee, raising $300,000 for five Cape Cod nonprofit organizations. The beneficiaries of the 2025 event include Cape Cod Healthcare, Cape Cod Theatre Company/Harwich Junior Theatre, Cape Kid Meals, Fishing for the Mission 22, and Parents Supporting Parents. Since its inception in 2001, the race has raised nearly $10 million. Nearly 100 drivers competed in Formula One-style karts on a quarter-mile track in Mashpee Commons. The winning team was Robert B. Our and Advantage Truck Group, with seats driven by members of the Mashpee police and fire departments. Shepley Wood Products/Andersen secured 2nd place, E.F. Winslow/Cape Cod Commercial Linen took 3rd place, and Lawrence-Lynch Corp set the fastest lap time.
The inaugural Seaside Le Mans race was held in 2001, just days after the September 11th attacks, serving as a symbol of unity for the Cape Cod community during challenging times. DeWitt Davenport, CEO of The Davenport Companies and founder of the race, emphasized the importance of coming together as Americans in the face of adversity. Congressman Bill Keating, the race's grand marshal, commended Davenport for his dedication to the event over the past two decades, highlighting the perseverance required to sustain and grow such a charitable initiative. The Davenport Companies cover all event costs, ensuring that every dollar raised goes directly to the supported charities. The partnership with The Cape Cod Foundation helps manage sponsorship donations, further enhancing the impact of the Seaside Le Mans race on the local community.
In conclusion, the Seaside Le Mans race in Mashpee continues to make a significant impact on Cape Cod by supporting vital nonprofit organizations. The event's success over the years reflects the community's resilience and unity, as well as the commitment of organizers and participants to give back to those in need. Through fundraising efforts and spirited competition, the Seaside Le Mans race exemplifies the spirit of philanthropy and camaraderie that defines the Cape Cod community.