2018 was a trying year for the entire racing community. The loss of Jason Johnson and Greg Hodnett was truly heartbreaking. These losses made Ashley really question her return to the race track. Ashley said, “Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love what I do and am so thankful for all of the opportunities I have been given, but this year was a tough one to swallow. First Jason, then Destiny, on the same week as Greg, 3 days prior.” Destiny was a fan of Ashley’s who could always be found in turn 4 wishing Ashley good luck before every race. Unfortunately, Destiny got HLH and became very ill. They tried to improve her health with a bone marrow transplant but that just made things worse for Destiny. With her passing being Monday, September 17th, Destiny’s funeral was on Thursday. Then the bad news struck about Greg. “ I felt like I was dreaming but in reality, it was a nightmare. I left the funeral home and stopped to pick up food before my shift at work. On the way to work I had my friend on FaceTime listening to the race at Baps and at the red lights, I would watch the race. As soon as I pulled into work there was the red flag for Greg. I hung up as I was walking into to work just had a feeling something wasn’t right, but I definitely didn’t think it was going to be the results that it turned out to be. I got the phone call at work the Greg passed and I just screamed and cried. I didn’t want to believe it, and I thought how could this happen and why. Two friends that passed within 72 hours. I just couldn’t wrap my head around it. I truly started to question if this is what I wanted to do anymore. Not because I was scared but because of the emptiness feeling of everything that happened However, the time has passed, and while I will never forget these three amazing people, I know they would want me to continue. Continue to do what I love; and what they all loved, In 2019 I know I have to raise the bar and reach that biggest goal and that’s winning. You can carry your heroes with you and that should be enough determination of its own. This year its time to put on that helmet and make this year the best one yet” says Ashley.
Over the past couple of weeks, Ashley and the team have been working hard preparing everything for the 2019 season. With that being said, ACR is pleased to announce that Smoker’s Outlet will be returning for the 3rd year as the main sponsor and Gettysburg Trading Post as the secondary sponsor. Also returning, will be Republican Club of Hanover, Skip & Penny’s Country Catering, Apple Automotive, Brennaman Painting. Product sponsors, FK Rod Ends, Schaefer’s Oil, Total Seal Piston Rings, Lunati, 717 Innovations, AL Driveline, NGK Spark Plugs, Fastener Specialties, Smith Titanium, Newlin Bar Service, HighDef Shocks, Callies, RRI Design, Rocket Designs for Embroidery, and K1 Race Gear. - Some sponsors are still being finalized for the 2019 season. Thank you Paul Felsch, Dean Bowman, as well as Nate & George from Fit Engines for all the engine work. The team is still looking for marketing partners for the year. If anyone would be interested, please feel free to contact Ashley amcdesigns89@aim.com Schedule to be released at a later date.
- administrator on Jan 31, 2019
- Article Date: 1/13/2019