Not To Be Forgotten

As important as it is to thank the inspirations behind me in the adventure, it is also important to recognize the people who support the madness, even though it does not otherwise interest them. This may prove to be much harder than the people that were already excited at the opportunity that has been prescribed to me. However family members like my mother, Sara, my stepmom, Danielle, and my grandparents, Patricia and Francis have shown love and support, even through a dark cloud of confusion surrounding what could be so damn thrilling about making 80 left turns at the fastest pace possible with 30 other hooligans trying to do the same -

All summer long.

Some have supported me in following my dreams of living the glory and supreme adrenaline rush that is racing. To others, their love and encouragement fuels my embarking of a long summer of left turns, heartbreaks, and a considerable increase in the chance of injury. To support something they find so alien, and completely insane, is a feat not many can accomplish. Just imagining my Mom or grandparents on the infamous "Budweiser Hill" with empty beer cans clinking down the concrete chute around them -

Comical doesn't quite describe it.

Yet, there they will be. Although they could not name 2 other race car drivers at Thunder Road, there is something to be said for those who can show their love and support, even when they don't see the excitement of your dreams. They show blind faith and encouragement towards a goal they don't see much merit in. This kind of unconditional love and reassurance is only found in those closest to you, and this kind of love is just as important as the support of those who are well versed in the sport. So thank you, to the grandparents, sisters, siblings, and everybody in between, that stands behind me and shows their support, even when they don't necessarily see the light at the end of the tunnel. Your support is equally appreciated, and I expect you all in Victory Lane after my first win (whenever that may come).