Daytona “Roar Before the Rolex 24”

Jim Wilson, Club President, filed the following report.

On Friday, January 3, I drove over to Daytona International Speedway to see the practice session for the 24 hours of Daytona Endurance Race coming up January 22-26, 2020. The “Roar” is a special event sponsored by the Boy Scouts of America, International Motor Sports Association and Daytona International Speedway. Scouts and their families camp in the infield for two nights, and tours, track walks and autograph sessions are included for the kids. Best of all, those under 15 are free. All others pay only $20 a day, which includes full access to the pits, unheard of before now. What a deal! 

Racing and practice were continuous the whole three days. The new Corvette was a huge draw. I was able to take some great pictures (even touched the front spoiler!). They change the rotor, caliper, and pads of the Corvette front brake rotor assemblies in less than a minute four times during the 24-hour race. Among some of the other famous marques in attendance were the Cadillac DPi cars, Lamborghini Huracan GT3, Porsche GT RSR, Maclaren, Acura NSX, BMW M3, and Aston Martin.    

Several famous drivers were seen walking through the pits including: Juan Pablo Montoya, Simon Pagenaud, Scott Dixon, Ryan Hunter-Reay and Kyle Busch of NASCAR fame.   

This is the third year I have attended this event; the huge number of families and kids makes it special. I plan to return next year

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