Miss Toyota of Long Beach Farewell Letter

Being crowned Miss Toyota Grand Prix 1999 has been such a remarkable event in my life.  My love for the auto racing industry motivated me to decide to enter this pageant to be the spokesperson for the Long Beach Grand Prix Race. After being crowned my year began filled with autograph signings, parties, visiting pageants, parades, public speaking and numerous other engagements.

I have been truly blessed to have the honor to be aquatinted with the C300 committee. These are the most respectable compassionate people that I have ever met and I appreciate their kindness throughout the year. Having the privilege to be involved with such events as the celebrity races was definitely fun and eventful.  The financial portions of their race was donated to charity and that is such a great contribution for the city of Long Beach.

The week of the races was an exciting event for everyone involved.  I felt so fortunate to be allowed in the pits and meeting divers such as Michael Andretti, Jimmy Vasser, and Juan Montoya made this event unforgettable.

The Grand Prix charity days involved so many different activities that I felt privileged to be apart of.  The golf tournament included meeting Chi Chi Rodriguez and learning new golfing tricks. The charity ball was such an exciting event because of the bidding of the beautiful artwork, and gifts on display including an opportunity to be in the celebrity race. The Fashion show and the art & wine festival were great opportunities to meet the committee and the designers of some of the artwork on display. Monte Carlo night was a very fun evening filled with gambling, raffles, dancing, and food.

The ultimate excitement was the Grand Prix race and the opportunity to be at the winners' circle and see the joy and excitement of everyone. 

Mr. and Mrs. Pook have been extremely influential people with this organization and made me feel quite welcome through the entire event.  Mr. Unger organized and selected great individuals who produced a remarkable event. 

Thanks to Keri, Kelly, and Wade for the organization, openness and wonderful advice that I will always take with me.  Toyota Grand Prix Race of Long Beach has been such a positive event for the community by donating $400,000 to various charity organizations. This generosity will impact so many individuals' lives and create an even stronger community for the city of Long Beach.

Sincerely,

Toay Foster
Miss Toyota of Long Beach 1999