11/7/99

I know, I know, I am really late with this one. Lets just say this week has been on the CRAZY side. But better late than never.

Sunday's report:

As I stood in my hotel room and watched the sun come up, I knew this was going to be a special day. I was just grateful that our race was early in the morning so the agony of waiting wouldn't be terrible.

After chapel service and a SportsCar meeting there really wasn't too much time to do anything except get in the car and go race. I told Fred that I wanted to get in the car as soon as possible just to get some quite time to think and relax. With all the family and friends wishing you good luck, things got a little overwhelming. But I had to remember that it was because of them, giving me constant support and encouragement throughout the year that made it possible for me to be sitting in that race car!

The top 4 cars all agreed just to get single file as quickly as possible when the green flagged dropped. I really believe that Allison, Divina and Belinda and myself just wanted to get this race underway with a clean start. And it worked, for once!!

It was one of those races that just "came to me." I really worked on being patient and not forcing the issue. And sure enough it worked. The last few laps running in second with Divina, I thought very hard about making a move but a little voice kept telling me "nope, don't throw everything away." But believe me, it was tough! There were a couple of times I REALLY wanted to go for it.

So we ended up second and that was good enough to win the championship. I still cannot believe it! Many of my family and friends had tears in their eyes in the winner’s circle as I was getting out of the car. It was a day that I will always remember. I had worked so hard, dedicated myself the entire year to this day that it just didn't quite sink in.

I vowed to loose the crutches for the awards banquet that was being held at the Paris hotel. It was a beautiful dinner and evening. As I sat there watching the large video monitors showing highlights of the WGGT year, I think it was then everything took shape. I did it. I actually did it!! But in truth, "we" did it. There was soooo many people who really contributed to this outcome.

Needless to say the celebration continued late into the evening or I should say morning. I have bittersweet feelings about finishing up the racing year. In some ways, I wish it didn't end. But all good things must come to a close. So with that, I would like to thank everyone once again for all your letters emails and phone calls. They really meant more than you will ever know.

Until next year!

Cindi