This weekend’s racing event is a very special one for me. For starters, it’s going to be my last race of the season. The BMW is going under the knife this winter, and the logistics and planning phases are starting immediately after this weekend. Hence, as it will only be the penultimate race for most, it will be the last for me. Secondary to this is that I’m going head-to-head with best friend and fellow team driver, Larz, this weekend. As “el capitan” of the racing team I’m a member of, he’s arguably one of the best drivers I know. Last year’s penultimate event included a grudge match as well, except Larz had me by a whole two combined seconds.

The way it works is simple. Larz takes three laps in my car, then three laps in his. I do the same. The person with the best combined singular hot laps from each car is declared the winner. As far as points go amongst the team members, it’s a done deal for this year. I’m not mathematically eligible for Driver of the Year honors this year. But no biggie. We’re out there to have a lot of fun, hang out with our friends (whom we wouldn’t normally get to because of work, family, etc.), and improve ourselves as drivers. Nonetheless, Larz and I have been talking an unusual amount of shit to each other. Normally, we’re pretty humble guys, but I’m thinking maybe he feels a little threatened, that he might actually lose to me. Lol. Who knows. Either way, it’s going to be fun.

“Aaaaah, Ricky Bobby! Now we shall dance. And yes, it will be a slow jam.”