March 14, 2001

Sebring Practice Day

Wednesday started off with a visit to a local elementary school. Johnny gave a short speech to about 120 children about being a race car driver, accepted questions, and signed posters (check out the photo gallery…look at some of the children’s expressions!) . Many of the children were very anxious to ask about wrecks that Johnny has had, how much race drivers get paid, how fast the car goes, if Johnny feels like he is famous, and who Johnny voted for in the presidential race. One child even asked if he could have some of Johnny’s money. This was a fun event that the kids really enjoyed. I must note that Johnny really relates well to the kids.

The first practice session was early afternoon. Johnny was 3rd fastest with a 2:06.058 behind Boris Said (2:05.416) and Paul Gentilozzi (2:05.724). He is very pleased with the handling of the car and is starting to feel very comfortable with it. He also made a comment that the track felt “very crowded” with 44 entrants. The second practice session left Johnny 4th fastest with about the same times as the earlier session. We are happy about where we are at with the car and expect to have a good qualifying run tomorrow.

The Rocketsports crew is doing excellent work with preparing the car and having it ready to go. They are very professional and great team players…they look good in the smiley crew uniforms too!!!