Larry and I woke up -- surprisingly only half comatose - after only 4 hours of sleep. Yes, we have managed to finish last in every category, including arriving at the hotel for a good night's rest. As I told one of the organizers, at least we're consistent!
Today was a good day. Larry and I are developing a routine. We prepare the car together. Then I run off to speak with the other drivers about the track in question, and Larry manages the pit area and the directions and preparations for the next leg of the trip.
Today was extra special because my good friend, Andee, and her husband Jack came out to visit from northern VA. Andee has been a huge supporter of our fundraiser and has managed the accounting process. Fortunately, I was able to put in a couple of good hot laps while they were watching.
However, when they were not watching (i.e. they had already left), I logged in an interesting lap. I was starting to feel comfortable with the track when it started to rain. I believed that since it had just started raining, I would not have any issues on the track. Wrong! Just as I was coming out of one turn and rushing at full throttle (yes, I'm so proud) to the next turn, I hit a wet spot and started to severely fishtail. I was able to manage the fishtail (I kept chanting: drive like you're on ice; you can do this), when I hit another spot and got sideways. I was heading towards the tire wall. Bizarre how slowly an event can happen in your mind. I resigned myself to the hit and merely thought... this could hurt. Fortunately, I hit a dry spot and it sent me into a 360 spin back towards the track! I recovered and moved on.
Just as I was congratulating myself, I saw the checkered flag and thought, I can come in. I didn't need a cool lap because I was moving gingerly after the spin. Unfortunately, I never crossed the checkered flag!!! My session - which was good for me -- was not counted. Repeating yesterday, can she not count the number of laps in a session???
Actually, Team Fritsch is doing OK. We have little experience and the rest of the field has way more than us. Also, each track is a little stressful as I try to learn it as quickly as possible.
Tomorrow morning is Carolina Motorsports (SC) followed by BMW private performance center with 150 miles in between. Then we're off to Daytona!
You should know that Larry is carrying the flag for our cause. He has been handing out cards (specially made by Sandy) highlighting our fundraiser and how they can help. Since our car receives the most attention (of course, I'm biased), there are ample opportunities to spread the word. Thank you, Larry!!
Off to a 6 hour sleep. We're exhausted, and we need to arrive at the track early so that I have plenty of time to see the track and to ask questions.
Thank you loyal fans! We can make a dent in the fight against PD.
Good night!
Josie
Put the Brakes on Parkinsons is a TEAM FOX fundraiser for the Michael J. Fox Foundation. The Fritsch Family will participate in the 2011 Cannonball One Lap of America Race to raise $25,000 to help find a cure for Parkinsons's Disease (PD). 86% of the funds raised go to research. Please consider donating and becoming extended members of our family to help Put the Brakes on Parkinsons!
I hope I'm doing this right and you will see the post! You were AWESOME yesterday!!! So what if you can't count. Counting is overrated!! Our question is - what the flower lei on the mirror? That's your good luck charm - plus my attempt at getting you to smile when you see it and know that your friends are rooting for you. Rhodes' offer to sit on your lap is still good - he can soak up rain when it comes in the car and give you kisses at the same time. Have an awesome day!
ReplyDeleteThe flower lei worked! it was good luck. I have to admit, however, I didn't let it hang from the mirror. Not sure I could handle its fragrance for too many hours at a time. Thanks again for coming out to see us! I really, really appreciate the support.
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