Panoz Motor Sports Group and the American Le Mans Series are partnering with Emory University School of Medicine, one of the world's leading health care providers, to raise money for awareness, research and prevention of breast cancer through this year's Petit Le Mans sports car race, the 10th running of the 1,000-mile/10-hour endurance classic.

Panoz Motor Sports Group founder Dr. Don Panoz and wife Nancy are the driving forces behind "Le Petit Elegance", which will be set against the backdrop of the American Le Mans Series' cornerstone event at Road Atlanta. The purpose for the event, set for 5 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, October 4 at the circuit, is to raise money for Emory's Department of Surgery and its Program for Breast Cancer Research.

"Breast cancer is an ailment that affects millions of lives each year," Dr. Panoz said. "Nancy and I are pleased and honored to partner with Emory University School of Medicine in this new initiative. It is our hope that Le Petit Elegance will allow us all to make a difference in how breast cancer is diagnosed, treated and overcome."

A variety of items, many race-related, will be up for auction with all proceeds going to Emory. They include a painting by famed motorsports artist Bill Patterson, a weekend package to the Spa at Chateau Elan, parking and hospitality for the next 10 runnings of Petit Le Mans, a firesuit signed by all drivers in this year's Petit Le Mans and a selection of American Le Mans Series photographs.

Many Series drivers also will be on hand to sign autographs during the reception. Donations also may be made during the event.

"Le Petit Elegance is an entirely new and exciting type of fund-raising event for breast cancer research," said Dr. William C. Wood, Chairman of Emory's Department of Surgery. "Thanks to the generosity of Don and Nancy Panoz, and the American Le Mans Series family, every dollar raised - including those from sponsors such as Wachovia - will be used for research at Emory."