Busti, NY — On Thursday, July 3rd engines will rev and tires will spin at Stateline Karts — not just for the thrill of the race, but in memory of a boy who touched countless lives with his smile.
 
The second annual Cooper Groves Memorial Go-Kart Race is being organized by local parents Jay and Jobie Groves to honor their son Cooper, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 17 due to complications from mitochondrial disease, a rare and complex genetic condition he was born with.
 
“Last year was amazing," Jobie said. “It far surpassed our expectations, and it just showed us how much people loved Cooper and wanted to celebrate the good cause of 'Smiles by Cooper'."
 
"We had over 200 participants in the race," added Jay. "It was an amazing turnout, and we also had a crazy amount of spectators - it was so fantastic to have everyone come out and join us."
 
The event, held on the eve of Independence Day, brought out a large crowd in its first year and raised funds to support future races and a kindness initiative launched in Cooper’s name.
 
“Everyone knew Cooper and his smile,” said his father, Jay Groves. “It was so contagious, and this helps us carry it on."
 
Proceeds from this year’s race will go toward the 2025 memorial race and support 'Smiles by Cooper' — a grassroots effort started by the family to encourage random acts of kindness in Cooper’s memory.
 
“We’re excited to see everyone again,” said Jay. “This year is going to be even bigger, we received more sponsors and have already signed up a lot of racers, it's very exciting."
 
The second annual Cooper Groves Memorial Go-Kart Race will be held Thursday, July 3rd at State Line Raceway in Busti, New York. Gates will open at 3:00PM with the race starting at 6:00PM.

For more information about the race and 'Smiles by Cooper', visit here.