VARAC 2018 Vintage Grand Prix at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park - June 14th to 17th Race Report

A very sad weekend for the STANMECH Technologies, Good Cars Only, Gabo Solutions #77 Formula Mazda Team. Although we had a stellar performance winning all four of our races, our weekend was forever changed by the death of F5000 driver Jeff Green.  We worked with the entire F5000 race group throughout the VARAC 2018 VGP to help them become familiar with the track and to optimize their performance.  Unfortunately, during the F5000 race on Saturday afternoon, Jeff’s race car left the racing surface at the exit of corner 8 resulting in heavy contact with the tire barrier.  Jeff passed away as a result of his injuries. https://racer.com/2018/06/17/former-pro-mazda-driver-green-killed-in-ctmp-vintage-crash/

We have waited to post our race report from this past weekend to let some time pass after this catastrophe and out of respect for everyone that Jeff’s life touched.  Additionally, we needed to process what this tragedy meant to us, particularly on a personal level as a race car driver and as a coach. We can tell you that, without reservation, this tragic event has affected a great many people associated with the racing community – family and friends, drivers and crew, first responders and volunteers.  All of us have needed the time this past week to console and support each other.  One thing we know without a doubt, Jeff raced because he loved it, as all of us do.  In that spirit, we will continue to race because racing is an integral part of our life.  Every race car driver understands the inherent risks each time they strap into a race car – this risk is accepted in exchange for the pure joy one feels driving a race car at the limit.  And each time we strap into our race car we will take a moment to remember Jeff Green – rest in peace Jeff – his family and friends will forever remain in our hearts.
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With respect to our VARAC 2018 VGP race weekend, we raced in the Monoposto group. The weather was perfect for the entire race weekend, with a mix of both sunny & humid days, ranging from the 20's to the mid-30’s Celsius. Over the course of Friday, Saturday and Sunday, we were on track a total of 6 times; one practice, one qualifying session, and 4 races. The car performed flawlessly in both practice and qualifying - we were fortunate to qualify first in our class. We managed to finish in 1st place in each of our four races, an outstanding accomplishment!!  Our race group featured some unbelievable vintage formula cars - it was a pleasure to be on track with them.

A heartfelt thank you to the VARAC for hosting the event!!  And a big thank you to our sponsors, STANMECH Technologies, Good Cars Only, Gabo Solutions, to Bill Vallis of Vallis Motor Sport and to Ken Ferrell, our race engineer.  And last, but certainly not least, we want to thank our family which continues to allow us to race, especially during this most recent, emotionally challenging weekend.