Patrick Dempsey to Race Mazda RX-8 in Florida

Mazda and actor Patrick Dempsey partnered to promote tourism awareness and therefore attract visitors to Florida. The star from Grey’s Anatomy will race a Mazda RX-8 wearing a bright yellow and orange 'Share a Little Sunshine' logo this weekend during the Grand Prix of Miami at Homestead-Miami Raceway.

As part of the partnership, racers competing in the Star Mazda Championship Presented by Goodyear will be competing for a new award, the VISIT FLORIDA Cup.

"We're very excited to generate awareness for the 'Share a Little Sunshine' campaign and want to do what we can to bring tourism and jobs to Florida," said Dempsey.  "It's a bright idea and when you see the color scheme on the No. 40 Mazda this weekend in Homestead you'll agree! I sent my invitation to visit the Sunshine State and I hope everyone else does too.  It's a fun cause to support."

Tourism is Florida's No. 1 job producer and it is estimated that every 85 visitors equals one job. A prize package will be given away each quarter to someone who sent an invitation through the campaign's website. The packages include such prizes as a Florida vacation or even a Mazda Miata. The more invitations someone sends, the more their chances of winning the prize increase.

"This partnership with Mazda Racing and Patrick's team is a tremendous opportunity to draw attention to the importance of the tourism industry in Florida on a grand stage and in a really fun way," said VISIT FLORIDA President and CEO Chris Thompson. "I look forward to VISIT FLORIDA's involvement in his racing effort all season and hope he has great success."