Austin Hatcher Foundation Auctions Custom Factory Five Build

The Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer announced the success of the recent auction on Bring-A-Trailer for its custom-built Factory Five Racing Mk4 Roadster. The one-of-a-kind car was assembled by pediatric cancer patients, siblings and families as part of the Foundation’s Industrial Arts STEM Therapy Program.

“I’m impressed with the quality of the Austin Hatcher Foundation’s builds and the quality of their organization,” said Dave Smith, president of Factory Five Racing. “The build quality is exceptional. The paintwork and panel fitment are world-class, the running gear and suspension are ideal for a touring/sports car.”

The Factory Five Mk4 Roadster sold for an impressive $105,000, with all the proceeds supporting comprehensive care for families facing pediatric cancer.

The Factory Five Racing Mk4 Roadster captivated enthusiasts over the seven-day auction. The car, finished in striking “No Strings White” over Can-Can Red leather upholstery, boasted a powerful BluePrint Engine-built 347-ci V-8, TREMEC 5-speed manual transmission, and a Moser Engineering 8.8-inch rear axle.

“What makes this vehicle build extraordinary is the teamwork that brought it to life,” said Daniel Fosbinder, the foundation’s industrial arts manager. “Pediatric cancer patients and family members actively participated in the project, providing them with an outlet for overcoming the challenges they face as a side effect of cancer treatment.”

Through the Industrial Arts STEM Therapy program, children and their families learn a STEM-based trade and improve essential skills that may have been affected by childhood cancer.

“At the Austin Hatcher Foundation, we’re not just building charity cars, we’re building high-quality cars,” said Jim Osborn, concept designer of the Mk4 Roadster and Austin Hatcher Foundation co-founder.

The collaboration with industry leaders included contributions from partner companies such as Factory Five Racing, Akzo Noble, BluePrint Engines, Bulox Leather, Whitby Motorcars and others.

The Foundation’s 2023 build was sold to Jeff Whitacre of Greensboro, North Carolina, who came to pick up the car at the foundation on Feb. 9.

The funds from the auction directly contribute to the foundation’s mission of providing comprehensive care for families facing pediatric cancer. This includes services such as occupational therapy, counseling, grief groups, art and music therapy, family programs, and educational resources, all provided at no cost to the family.

To learn more about the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer or to get involved, please visit www.hatcherfoundation.org.