Monticello, NY – August 19, 2023
Taking to the full course of Monticello Motor Club, I felt a mix of excitement and the usual pre-race jitters. With a 35-minute clock ticking down and some of the best drivers around me, I knew I was in for a challenge.
The race began with me darting from P2, but Chris Cagnazzi was right there, giving me no room to breathe. We went side by side into Turn 1, which ended up being one of those moments you replay in your head long after the race. Unfortunately, we had that little incident – Chris’s car made contact with mine. I managed to maintain my position, but it was a heart-in-mouth situation for sure.
Alex Blaker was another driver who kept the pressure on, eventually finishing in third.
As the race progressed, I was pushing my Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport to its limits. I was able to set the fastest lap of the race with a time of 2:26.476.
Crossing the finish line, the final order was myself in first, followed by Chris, Alex, Tom P, Sam B, Miguel D, Reggie T, Jason C, and Lou G.
After the adrenaline of the race subsided, I could reflect on it: “I felt really good about this race. Sure, Chris was always on my tail, and the pressure was intense. But it’s moments like this that make racing what it is. Plus, I’m really excited about that new set of Hankook Tires!”
Besides the GT4 Sprint Challenge Race, I also took part in the MMC Member Challenge Races, where I secured a first and fourth-place finish respectively.
Looking ahead, the next GT4 Sprint Race is scheduled for Saturday, September 30th. I’m currently leading the championship with 64 points, and I have every intention of holding or extending that lead.
Racing at Monticello Motor Club was an experience to remember. The track, the competitors, and the fans all made it special. Now, it’s back to training, preparing, and looking forward to the next race.
