Hayden Indy helmet goes on the block

From Ducati North America

CUPERTINO, CA - Ducati North America, Nicky Hayden and the Make-A-Wish Foundation have announced a charity auction for the helmet Hayden wore en route to a podium finish at the Red Bull Indianapolis Grand Prix.

Two weeks ago, at Hayden's first Indianapolis race aboard a Ducati, he unveiled this special helmet to celebrate what would be a historic moment. With his home crowd cheering him on, Hayden took his first podium of the year and his first podium while riding for Ducati.

The entire race weekend saw crowds cheering for Hayden at every turn and now he is offering the helmet he wore during the race to help the Make-A-Wish foundation enrich the lives of children during their greatest moments of need. This hand painted helmet is signed by Hayden and comes with a letter of authenticity from Starline Designers.

"I was really proud of how the helmet turned out for Indy and the vibe that it got," he said. "It was truly a very special helmet and it was an honour to wear. I know how lucky I am and feel that it's my duty to try to give something back when possible. What better way than by helping make kids' dreams come true.

"It’s great to be part of Make A Wish. I've been a part of their team for five years and have done some neat things which always puts smiles on faces."

In honour of the new Nicky Hayden Edition 848, the opening bid on the helmet will be $848. The link to the auction is: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160364486964

Ducati North America has held Make-A-Wish auctions at each of this year's MotoGP Ducati Islands. Over $23,000 has been raised to date with all proceeds going directly to Make-A-Wish.