January 30 , 2003

A long cold winter...but a great start to the season

It's been months since I wrote my last journal entry. Since the last time I wrote, we won two back to back races with Knighthawk which resulted in the lmp675 class/team championship. That was a great feeling to help Steve and Mel achieve one of their racing goals. Upon the completion of Petit Le Mans, which was a very very hectic race, the car was sold to Dyson Racing out of Poughkeepsie New York.

I have known Dyson for a few years now, and they were always my favorite team since my dad started taking me to daytona about 10 or so years ago. That man James Weaver was always a treat to watch hustling the car around the track. It was always my goal to drive for Dyson, and that has finally come true. I tried to build a good relationship with Rob and Chris since moving into sportscars last season. I have a business sense because of my upbringing and watching such a professional organization like Dyson operate is always a treat.

The suspense of announcing our Sebring pairing was absolutely killing me. I see the opportunity not only as one to prove myself, but mainly as the best opportunity to learn from masters of the sport. Also, as always...new teams always mean fun times getting to know each other. Just having been up to the shop to have a seat fitted, I was already entertained by all of the guys on their staff. This weekend I will strap on my helmet and turn laps in the white/blue #20 Dyson car for the first time at sebring. I have run Sebring a few times in the past with good success, such as when I won the 2001 Star Mazda race by a decent margin. It should be great, being able to review data with Chris, James, Butch, Andy (wait.....am I on a first name basis yet????).

I will do a small write-up on the Sebring track in the MG Lola when I return, of course I wont be too specific..I don't want our competition learning anything. hee he. Well stay warm everyone, I am going to do my best this weekend in Florida. The abuse I feel in the car this weekend will tell me which parts of my exercise program I need to enhance, which will be fun because I've just met someone that specializes in fitness training...I cant wait to start a new program.

See you at Sebring...hopefully at the front of the grid.

Chad