Everything a race fan could ask for, the smell of burning rubber, the squeal of tires rounding the track, a beautiful Arizona night perfect for road racing at the Main track at Firebird International Raceway. Victor is ready and looking forward to the racing action.
The main track has a long straightaway where the car builds an incredible amount of speed. At the end of the straightaway the braking system is relied upon heavily to do its job. The main track also features giant sweeping curves and chicanes (A chicane is a series of tight curves in a road race used to slow cars.), one of the places where Victor typically shows his talent on the race track. Further along the course is the impressive tower turn and the only place on the track with a wall as the outer boundary.
The practice session went smoothly. A tire from a different manufacturer has Victor and his crew adjusting the car for maximum performance. All is looking good and Victor is thrilled to be able to race again. The qualifying race is next and Victor is lined up to start in fourth place. The racing has started and the first four cars pull away from the rest of the field of racers. Victor passes the third place car in the chicanes. The fourth place car now passes him back. It is into the chicanes again and Victor passes back to third. Victor’s lap times are getting faster and all is looking good. The second place car is coming within Victor’s grasp and car owner and crew feel the adrenaline rush that comes when Victor is one with his racing.
Alas it is not to be Victor’s night. The car overheats and the cab fills with smoke. The only option is to bring the car to the pits and try to diagnose the problem. However any time he gets to race and have fun doing what he enjoys is a good night and next race will be better.
A special thanks to car owner Shirl Dickey. Victor’s next race will take place at Firebird International Raceway, June 5th and 6th morning only.