Jimmie Johnson receives touching honor at sports legends event

Lydia Mee

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Jimmie Johnson receives touching honor at sports legends event image

Racing legend Jimmie Johnson was celebrated at the 39th annual Great Sports Legends Dinner in New York City. Held on September 30, 2024, the event marked an emotional moment for Johnson, who was honored for his relentless advocacy and support for neurological research. 

This prestigious dinner serves as a fundraising effort for The Miami Project and The Buoniconti Fund, organizations dedicated to finding cures for a spectrum of neurological disorders.

Johnson, a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and current owner of Legacy Motor Club, has consistently used his platform to shine a light on vital causes such as spinal cord injury research and treatment. His acknowledgment at the dinner was a testament to his ongoing commitment to these essential fields. 

Johnson stated in a social media post:

"I'm honored to be recognized at The Buoniconti Fund's 39th Annual Great Sports Legends Dinner. More importantly, millions were raised to fund research for spinal cord injuries and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, MS, ALS, and Stroke.

"A big thanks to Darrell Gwynn for introducing me to this incredible cause. Proud to support The Buoniconti Fund and The Miami Project's mission to find a cure."

Prior to the event, Johnson appeared on the TODAY channel, where he elaborated on the critical work of The Miami Project in advancing treatment for spinal injuries. He revealed the personal significance these efforts hold for him, particularly in aiding athletes and others to "get back to life and live as they should." He explained:

"The Miami Project itself is something that's very important to me. In sports, there are so many spinal injuries, and to have such a focus group trying to help athletes, really, honestly anyone with this type of injury, find care, find ways to advance, to get back to life and live as they should, it's been really amazing to be a part of it and to be there tonight."

The Buoniconti Fund, founded by NFL Hall of Famer Nick Buoniconti in honor of his son, supports research and help for various spinal cord injuries and related diseases. During the gala event, numerous sports icons made an appearance, including former baseball players Scott Erickson and Roger Clemens, WNBA legend Tamika Catchings, former hockey star Henrik Lundqvist, tennis player Arantxa Sanchez Vicario, and Olympic gold medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings.

Reflecting on the significance of the evening, The Buoniconti Fund shared its enthusiasm in honoring Johnson, noting:

"We are thrilled to honor Legend Jimmie Johnson on September 30th as one of our Sports Legends at this year's Great Sports Legends Dinner in NYC.

"Learn about the honorees and how you can join us. Together, we can make a difference."

Lydia Mee

Lydia Mee Photo

Lydia Mee is a passionate motorsport journalist based in the UK. She has a background in covering Formula 1, NASCAR, electric vehicles, and other various motorsports and has interviewed current and former drivers such as Mario Andretti, Alain Prost, and Johnny Herbert amongst others. She's a strong advocate for women in motorsport and a more diverse industry. Her work has been seen on Sports Illustrated, On SI and Newsweek. She can be followed at @lydiameemotorsport on Instagram and @LMeeMotorsport on X.