Ironman fever

Browsing around the Ironman World Championship website I found this today. The race has been auctioning off a charity slots for a few years now. I don't know what the record is for $$ but this must be close. I wonder if anyone buys a slot out of their own pocket? I think it's great to raise money for charity but wish there was another way to do it besides letting those with deep pockets simply write a check. Just goes to show that money can buy just about anything.