After a disappointing start to the NASA season, I found myself grappling with doubts. Had I lost my competitive edge? The upcoming race at Motorsport Ranch Cresson loomed ahead as an opportunity for redemption.

Embarking on the journey from Houston to Cresson, Texas, I couldn’t shake the weight of my previous performance. Upon arrival, the anticipation mingled with the night’s festivities. Among the seasoned racers, Silvo shared insights about the track being fast this weekend, adding pressure not to fall behind.

As the race weekend started, I found myself relieved to serve as a backup during the instructor meeting, affording extra time for fine-tuning the car, if necessary.

Eagerly anticipating the 8 a.m. practice, I sought to gauge my standing among the competition before qualifying. The results were surprisingly encouraging, with only a one-second gap behind the top Super Touring 6 group. Recognizing areas for improvement, I felt poised to contend for the top dogs.

Qualifying commenced, and I secured a respectable 3rd place in Super Touring, trailing just 0.2 seconds behind 2nd place and 1 second behind the leader, setting the stage for a closely contested battle.

Race 1 brimmed with the exhilaration of wheel-to-wheel combat. Despite a shaky start marked by an overly ambitious maneuver resulting in the loss of my front bumper, I persevered from last place to clinch a podium finish, a testament to my resolve.

The grid for Race 2 mirrored the previous race’s results, starting me in 2nd position. I was too ambitious going into rattlesnake and made the same mistake from race 1. After the poor judgment, I strategized to capitalize on my strengths, seizing opportunities to advance while navigating the challenges posed by formidable opponents.

Amidst intense competition, I executed a calculated pass to claim the lead, ultimately securing victory as I crossed the finish line, reaffirming my racing prowess.

Celebrating the triumph of Race day one, I savored the taste of success, bolstered by my first-place finish and the accumulation of valuable points in the series standings. As evening descended, we gathered for the 2023 season awards. I finished overall 2nd in the 2023 ST6 season. The banquet, indulging in crawfish delicacies before satisfying our lingering appetites at a local burger joint.

The following day dawned with the promise of the weekend’s final race, the coveted trophy race. With podium finishes in the preceding races, I understood the importance of maintaining momentum to secure a podium spot once more.

Taking pole position, I strategized with fellow competitors, opting for an unconventional approach at the start line to gain a crucial advantage. The gamble paid off, as I navigated the course with precision, widening the gap between myself and the chasing pack to clinch a decisive victory.

Relieved that my trusty 86 held up throughout the demanding race. Just right after the finish, my bolt for the alternator tensioner came off. Luckily the belt was still there with no electrical issues. I reflected on the fortuitous timing of a minor mechanical issue, a testament to the resilience of both man and machine.

With eyes set on the next challenge at Eagles Canyon Raceway in April, the journey continues, fueled by the pursuit of excellence on the track. Stay tuned for the next chapter in this adrenaline-fueled saga.