I couldn’t get enough of the Florida sunshine last week, so after Daytona I headed to Sebring for a couple of days. David Murry Track Days hosted a two-day open-lapping program, which draws quite a few track day drivers and racers. It’s a great chance to get out of the cold weather up north!
I was fortunate to be working with Chuck Harrison, a driver who had never been to Sebring before and who had just started driving on track a year ago. Chuck really did his homework – he studied the videos I’d sent him to watch and he’d been doing iRacing simulator work. It was obvious from the get-go that he was familiar with the track layout and comfortable with this car, so that made the learning curve that much quicker.
We had a beautiful two days of perfect weather and real quality track time. Chuck was really pleased with his progress, and we enjoyed our time together over the two days.
I finally had to leave Florida, and once I got home I started helping with Long Road Racing’s big transition: they’re moving to Statesville, North Carolina, up on the north end of NASCAR country. Long Road Racing has always been based in Raleigh, and this is an exciting move. The new location is a former NASCAR shop, so it will be an easy transition for Long Road Racing to move in there.
While there are a lot of exciting new opportunities with this new location, there’s still a lot of moving to be done! We’re getting the equipment packed up and preparing for the finishing touches. Everything should be moved in and ready go to by the beginning of March!
First of all, Tom, congratulations on the progress you, the Speed Source and Mazda guys have made! It’s very impressive, and seeing you lead at Daytona was very cool.
One thing that I think is awesome is the way you’re driving a factory team’s LMP2 car at Daytona one weekend, and the next you’re coaching a relatively novice track day driver. I think your passion for the sport is peaking through! 🙂
Seriously, I think it’s great that you share so much of what you do and know with others.