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This weekend (March 31st-April 1st) was the WMRRA season opener! Unfortunately I was unable to make the New Rider’s Clinic/Novice race on Saturday…pretty big bummer especially since the weather was nice! On Sunday, I woke up early and got myself to the track, Mitchell and Arthur had left my trailer overnight so setting up was easy. I spent the morning working on miscellaneous tasks and getting ready for my first Novice practice. During tech I ran into some problems and I ended up having to skip my first practice session 
Sometime around noon it started pouring down a mix of rain and hail, just what I was hoping for for my first race! When 1:40PM came by, the weather had calmed down a little. I was SO apprehensive about riding…I almost sat out. My teammates convinced me that if I was smooth and consistent, I would be fine…even on Pirelli DOT races…yikes!
The warm up lap went without a hitch, and then I proceeded to grid up second row, second from the left. Contrary to popular belief, I did not wait for a green light! When the light went off, I took off. Knowing I had cold tires designed for a dry surface, I took it very easy. I don’t recall specifics from the race, as I was concentrating on staying upright. I do remember a bunch of guys passing me in T2 and T3, then promptly crashing in T3/T4. I hope they’re okay, but I’d leave them with this, “You’ve got to finish, to finish.” It’s a novice race guys!
When I saw the checkered flag I felt a huge burden had just been lifted from my shoulders. Coming around to the pit area I saw corner workers cheering and clapping and it was the best feeling in the world. I really believe that riding in the rain has boosted my confidence level, both in my riding ability and in my equipment. My lines were all spot on, and I was smooth with the gas and brakes. I ran tires that were not designed for the rain, and I survived. I really hope the next track day is dry!
One novice race down, five to go. White plates, here I come!
Characteristic of Seattle we were able to experience all four of Seattle’s fine seasons. During tear down the sun came out, and everything looked so perfect. Damn you Seattle!
