Like most kids, I grew up and enjoyed playing with Hot Wheels. I remember putting the plastic race track pieces together to create my own race day event and then fantasize about winning 1st place. But, at that age I never truly understood and appreciated the sport of IndyCar racing.
As I got older, I started to admire the discipline, the physical and mental strength that the sport demanded. I started to understand the technology that was not only being used with the vehicles but off the track as well and how every member of the racing team was so vital and critical to the success of every race. I started to develop a greater appreciation and understanding for the sport.
This appreciation became a reality when I was invited by Verizon Wireless to participate in the #INDYrivals event. I met and shared a very unique experience with 4 Indy race car drivers (Simon Pagenaud, Josef Newgarden, Mikhail Aleshin and Sebastian Saavedra) at the historic Presidio Golf Club in San Francisco.
Verizon described this event as "lighthearted competition for drivers to showcase their athleticism and competitive spirit"
But to me, it basically went down like this - Imagine four of your best friends getting together for a golf competition that included a putting, longest drive, chip, and accuracy challenge. You can bet that there's going to be some heckling.. trash talking.. chuckling.. the occasional lewd remark and shenanigans of any nature. And there was just that. There were really no rules of conduct or limitations on what was said in order to psych out the competition. What is interesting and something that I came to find out late in the competition is that these guys are actual friends off the course and race track. But, in the end they all knew there was only going to be one winner. It was nothing personal.
Then to my excitement I was also invited to Sonoma Raceway to take a tour of the track, and watch the qualifying runs for race day on Saturday. But, the best part was my invitation to ride one full lap in one of the IndyCar two-seat vehicles. I actually felt a little nervous as I was putting on my firesuit in the dressing room. As I stood to zip up my firesuit there stood the legendary Mario Andretti. The obligatory selfie with Mario ensued and I felt at ease again. Well, until I made my way onto the track to wait for my turn to hop in the back seat of the IndyCar. That is when I started to feel a little anxious again.. But this time it was out of excitement.
Finally it was my turn. My driver was Stefan Wilson. Once I hopped in the back seat, and I was all buckled up, Stefan hit the gas. The next minute or so was a total blur... Literally! I recall losing my breath a few times and the next thing you know our lap was complete. What a rush! This was one of the most amazing experiences of my life.
The Indy Rivalry carried over on to race day in Sonoma. Although I didn't get a chance to see the race in person, I did manage to catch it on TV. And wow! After having an amazing experience, I watched this race unlike any other. With a new found love, respect and appreciation for the sport and for IndyCar drivers. This was truly an experience I will never forget.
Simon Pagenaud ,Josef Newgarden and Mikhail Aleshin warming up on the driving range before the start of the competition.
Simon Pagenaud in the zone and mentally preparing for the golf competition.
Sebastien Saavedra during the putting challenge.
Josef Newgarden pulls the trigger on this 15ft putt.
Simon Pagenaud and Sebastien Saavedra weighing the competition.
Josef Newgarden lines up for his shot.
#INDYrivals taking a little PR break.
IndyCars lined up and waiting to enter the track.
#77 Simon Pagenaud waits for the green light to start his qualifying run.
The legendary Mario Andretti behind the wheel in one of the IndyCar two-seat vehicles.
Mario Andretti ready to hit the gas!
My selfie with Mario Andretti.