Grapevine: NASCAR to visit Colombia

Montoya and his wife Connie will host the American contingent, which is set to include Kyle Petty's Victory Junction Gang Camp as well. They will all visit one of the projects of Montoya's Formula Smiles Foundation in Cartagena on March 10.

"NASCAR's visit to Colombia is something extremely important for both Formula Smiles and our country," Montoya said. "Being part of the NASCAR community has enabled us to raise thousands of dollars that have permitted us to continue helping under-privileged kids in my home country.

"This visit gives us the opportunity to show the NASCAR community what we do and educate them on the reality of the situation in our country, and why we need as much support as possible."

NASCAR will donate through the NASCAR Foundation US $25,000 to Montoya's charity, which helps children in need throughout Colombia educating them in sports to improve their quality of life.

"On behalf of the NASCAR community I am proud to have the opportunity to work with caring people like Juan Pablo and Connie Montoya," said NASCAR chairman and CEO Brian France.

"Their efforts, like so many driver charities, benefit those less fortunate and in need. Formula Smiles is a terrific charity that will help children to excel in both academics and athletics."

In 2003 and 2005, Montoya staged the Race of Stars karting event in Cartagena, where Formula One, IRL and Champ Car drivers competed to help raise funds for his charity's projects.