An online auction of memorabilia dedicated to the late IndyCar champion Dan Wheldon has raised more than $600,000 for a memorial trust set-up for his family.

The organizers of the Dan Wheldon Memorial Auction released a final total amount of $627,203 after all the items had been officially sold and the money collected.

"We're beyond floored with the outpouring of love you have all shown," the organizers said via their Twitter account. "(We) couldn't have done it without you all! Words can't express our gratitude! Every little bit helped and will make a difference for the family."

IndyCar driver Graham Rahal (son of former series champion Bobby Rahal) started the auction when he announced plans to auction off his helmet, shoes and gloves from the fatal Las Vegas race where Wheldon was killed in a multi-car accident, and donate the proceeds to Wheldon's family.

As word spread about his gesture, personalities from the sports and entertainment world began donating items for Rahal to auction off. Within a few days the auction grew too big for Rahal to handle alone, it was then taken over by eBay, which waived all fees, and Auction Cause, an auction management agency.

In a statement, Wheldon's wife Susie said, "From the very beginning, I have been so overwhelmed by the outpouring of sympathy and the unwavering support of Dan's friends, his fans and from the racing community. When Graham (Rahal) reached out to me with the auction total today, I was very touched by everyone's generosity.  I want everyone to know how grateful I am and how much I appreciate everyone's kindness and their love.  It means the world to our family, and I hope one day to personally thank all those who donated and purchased the auction items."

(See also my previous post regarding IndyCar's Accident Investigation Report into Dan Wheldon's Death here: http://www.girlracer.co.uk/live-blogs/entry/indycar-release-dan-wheldon-accident-report-findings.html)