I just wrapped up an exciting weekend at Sebring International Raceway. I was continuing my time with Mark Sandridge and the Grandma’s Salad team, and we were there for the International GT series, which was running in conjunction with Trans-Am.
After a really productive test a couple weeks back, we were ready to turn that hard work into a strong start to the season. We hit the ground running at Sebring, with immediate success. During the practice day before the race event, Mark was able to get back up to speed, and we confirmed the car was dialed in just as we had left it.
Mark was able to achieve a personal best in qualifying, which resulted in a third-row start for the first race. Using superb race craft, Mark was able to come away with a second-place result, which was a great way to start the 2025 season!
The other highlight of the weekend was the one-hour enduro on the final day, where Mark and I had planned to co-drive. However, there is a minimum drive time rule of 25 minutes for each driver. An early full-course yellow changed our strategy, since it was the perfect time for the mandatory pit stop. Mark had started the race, and stopping so early required him to continue driving, which he did with great success!
After driving the full one-hour enduro on his own, Mark had achieved a personal-best performance for the weekend and finished sixth overall. He capped off the event on a very high note, and I was thoroughly impressed and proud of him. He persevered throughout the entire race to get an outstanding result.
The team’s next event is in March at Road Atlanta, and I’m looking forward to seeing them once again.