Race Day

The speed of the cars was almost unbelievable, with some going 180 mph. Imagine maintaining that speed while remaining alert and aware enough to avoid the myriad other cars around you, some trying to pass on the straightaways or the banked turns.  What skill -- what concentration. No, I'm not going to add "What idiocy."  These drivers have found their passion, and, while they are taking a risk, it is what they are compelled to do.  Go for it, guys (no gals here, as far as I could tell, though the grand marshal did announce, "Drivers [not 'Gentlemen'], start your engines.") 

Weighted down

Being able to view the race from so close, right in the infield, is one of the advantages of this race. Note that no one is in the grandstands.

Instead many of them are camping out . . .

in varying levels of luxury . . .

some sitting in the temporary infield stands,

or standing right up at the fence,

 or watching from atop their trucks.

while the kids amuse themselves in various ways.

We paid for a camping spot so that we could park close and have access to the infield, but, though we were somewhat charmed by the convivial goings-on at the camp sites, we were happy that our old bones and ears did not have to endure the cold and the all-night noise. 

Instead, we had a great, warm room with a kitchenette in the official race hotel right on the beach, enabling us to have our regular yogurt breakfast and a couple of simple suppers with items from the nearby Winn-Dixie.  And our view of and access to the beautiful beach was extraordinary.

It was great fun, but two hours of the actual race was enough for both of us.  A good birthday dinner out on the town was our last-night treat before taking off yesterday for Little River.  http://msn.foxsports.com/speed/sports-cars/action-express-racing-wins-52nd-rolex-24-at-daytona/