The 2018 racing season opened with its longest road trip to date. The Turtle team packed up the shell and trekked to the World Center of Racing in Daytona Beach, FL.
After taking planes, trains and automobiles the Shell Shocked Racing group arrived in Daytona, leaving the cold snowy weather back home in Indiana. After unloading the equipment, the first practice session was underway. Quickly the team could tell some of the time put in during the off season was well spent. Not at the top of the overall charts but much better than previous outings at Mini-Indy or North Carolina QMA, it did take a few laps to get used to the newly created tri-oval shaped quarter midget track.
After taking the green flag in each of the heat race and lower main, it was clear, we were among the best of the best at this inaugural event for the USAC.25 group. Past National Champions and several other champions were out to take the first Daytona trophy in their respective classes. We held our own for most of the laps, but we eventually were lapped and did not transfer.
What is a trip to Daytona without visiting the beach and other surrounding sites. SSR spent some time during the weekend to step away from the track and put their toes in the sand, a first for the team in the month of February. Another perk to the schedule that USAC put together, was allowing the racers and families to view ARCA race and the Busch Shootout. The drivers in the events would swing by our track and talk with the kids. Our drive was able to meet Eric Jones and receive his signature on his hat.
It was an awesome event and we continue to make memories of a lifetime.
- Charles Baldwin on Jul 19, 2018
- Article Date: 2/12/2018