JR Hildebrand was the right driver for the job when Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana sought out someone to take 19-year-old JD Casper for a spin around the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval in a newly-restored 1974 Pontiac Grand Ville convertible.
Make-A-Wish and IMS officials surprised Casper with the vintage cruiser on Sept. 16. The teen, who is from Indianapolis and battling Hodgkin’s lymphoma, wanted the once rough-around-the-edges car restored when he got it as a gift from his uncle after a drunk driver totaled his previous ride. Make-A-Wish and Reynolds Body Shop in Indianapolis granted the wish with a refinished interior and exterior, a new convertible top, carpet and wheels and tires.
Then, they brought Casper and his family to the track. Intent on surprising the teen, they told him he was there only for a tour. Hildebrand made his way to the track, too, on a plane from his home in Colorado.
Hildebrand also received a car as a surprise gift after a runner-up finish in the 2011 Indianapolis 500. Panther Racing team principal John Barnes was so impressed with the way Hildebrand handled losing the win that he gave him a mint 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS – the model that had long been the driver’s dream car.
“(IMS president) Doug Boles and the staff knew I was into old cars and that is what all of this really revolves around,” said Hildebrand. “I got into racing because my dad had a vintage race car.”
Hildebrand first took Casper for a ride around the track in another car and then drove up to the garage where the Grand Ville was stashed. When the door opened, the pair met Casper’s family, track and Make-A-Wish officials.
“Thank you all,” he almost whispered.
After the surprise wore off a bit, they took the Grand Ville for a trip around the 2.5-mile oval with Hildebrand again at the wheel.
“(J.R.) can do things I can’t,” said Casper. “(Drivers) can go at top speed without messing up and I’m afraid of that.”
Hildebrand had fun, too.
“I was enjoying myself driving the car. I think it looks pretty sweet,” he said. “It’s such a phenomenal organization and an honor for me to be part of here at the Speedway.”
Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. To donate, volunteer or refer a child, visit Indiana.wish.org or call 1-877-206-9474.
