2012 Drivers Champ Accolades

[boltonite]

I was sorry to miss this years banquet and witness our club's 2012 drivers champion receive his just desserts. I had the privilege of witnessing Dave's skills and character first-hand at numerous COM events, he has been a real inspiration to me on many levels.

I have been around long enough to know how rare it is to see racing bring out the best in people. Kudos Dave, you're an exceptional driver, it has been my rare treat to share the track with you.

-Fred

[eastcoastbumps]

Well said, Fred. We missed you (and a good few others) last night!

-Pete

[Mick]

Congrats Dave!

[StephanAlfa]

I am sure someone will SOON post Dave's picture wearing his tiara ... those at the banquet will know what I mean

Congratulations David, for many things actually:
* Your Championship (many trophies there)
* Your soon becoming a Father (that is most important)
* Your dedication to run in the Boston Marathon this year for a great cause

3 Cheers to you!

[paultg]

Way to go Dave!!

[TroyV]

Great job Dave! Sorry I missed the Banquet.

[savage217]

I missed it as well. Congrats Dave!

[CP]

Way to go Dave!

[Chrispy]

Congrats Dave, you earned it. Excellent driving this past year.

[wizzman]

Fred, thanks for the kind words. More importantly thanks for the guidance you provided me at a few of the away events this year. It is no coincidence that you are the person I seek out for advice on a new track or track I just haven't quite figured out. I seem to drop seconds from my laptimes after taking you for a ride. And it's definitely not a coincidence or just the weight reduction when you get out of the car

There are lots more thanks to go around as well. A quick shout out to Ted Drotleff for the motivation to get involved with COM in the first place. He has also been a huge help in wrenching on the car and getting me set up with a trailer this year.

I also want to give a big thanks to Troy. I never officially had Troy as an instructor but he has been a huge resource of information and feedback for me over the last two years. I can't think of a more selfless guy when it comes to racing knowledge, especially given that he is a fellow ST4 competitor. Other than when he told me to set my RA-1s at 40+psi in the rain at my first ever event at Mosport, he has never steered me wrong He takes instructing more serious than many people realize. I am glad to have gotten to know him both as an instructor and a friend.

The main goal this year was to try and chase down Troy and Jeff W. this year in ST4 at least once (a tall order for sure!). Unfortunately (but fortunately for both of them really) sometimes life takes precedent over a hobby that requires serious time and financial commitments. That said I am happy for the big changes in both of their lives this year (amazingly Jeff lives in Wilmington and Troy works in Wilmington now!) Without guys like you to chase and learn from it would be alot less exciting. Hopefully the new rule system duplicates this level of competition we have been fortunate enough take part in over the last couple years in many other classes.

Also a final thanks to John S., Will, and the COM board. It amazes me how inexpensive you have managed to keep the track fees compared to the other racing clubs. Both the longevity this club has exhibited and sustainability of the business model even in economic times like this is a testament to all your hard work. You can find many places to compete, but the friendly atmosphere of COM is what gets people hooked. I look forward to many more years of fun and challenging tracks, racing and weather but most importantly the good people!