Heading into turn eight I pulled inside and had a small “found Jesus” moment passing two cars under braking. My car was teetering on the edge of ABS and at the last second I slowed the car down enough for the front wheels to grab and turn, as I was looking straight ahead at the driver’s door of another car mid corner. Check out the in car video from the weekend and you will see what I mean.

The Ford Mustang Challenge Series has built a great reputation as one of the most competitive championships in North America. (JHR)

When the checkered flag dropped I was in 9th position and left wanting more. I had caught positions 6- 8 and we were nose to tail on the final lap. Similar to a child watching TV past their bedtime all I could think was, “just 10 more minutes, pleeeease”. For a first outing in the Ford FR500 S, a new track, and a new series, I was happy with a top ten finish. I am also proud to have brought home the BFGoodrich “Take Control” Award for the most positions gained during the race. That felt good. Thank you Capaldi Racing and BFGoodrich for giving me such a well prepared car with tires that not only last, but have remarkable grip (otherwise I might have ruined a suit during the above mentioned “found Jesus” moment).

The race was an intense battle, but I could not have asked for a better team supporting me in the pursuit of the coveted trip to victory lane. I had the pleasure of driving for Capaldi Racing, which is a family owned operation out of Michigan with extensive experience doing everything from building to campaigning Ford products. Capaldi also provides a top notch rental program that is individually tailored to the customer’s preferences.

Ford has chosen them as the factory team to campaign the Media Car during the 2009 season. Even though I had to play catch up entering a new series Capaldi Racing put my mind at ease. The team’s attention to detail helped me focus on my job of driving because I knew that the rest was taken care of. Thank you Capaldi Racing for doing a stellar job!

Hunt celebrates with the Capaldi Racing team. (JHR)

Having a good team behind you and a solid car underneath you is crucial, though it is only part of the package. The race series you compete in can make a big difference in one’s level of enjoyment while participating in the sport. The Ford Racing Mustang Challenge is a good example of a well run series (kudos to Grand-Am and The Ford Racing Mustang Challenge for making it the full package). You have a super fun car to drive in the Ford Mustang FR500 S, series officials that share racing as a passion, and racers that are friends as well as competitors.

With another great racing experience under my belt I’m focusing on what lies ahead and continuing my pursuit of creating opportunities. A special thank you is in order for Miller Motorsports Park, the Miller Performance Training Center, The Ford Racing Mustang Challenge, Capaldi Racing, and BFGoodrich Tires. For more information about the series and its partners visit mustangchallenge.com. Also check out the Capaldi Racing homepage at www.capaldiracing.com.