First, I want to say how disappointed I am in the coverage the GT class got in Rolex 24. All of the news related to the event focused solely on the Daytona Prototypes. It seems that many forgot that the Rolex 24 is essentially two races in one. Everyone knows who won the DP class, but does anyone know who won the GT? It was the #67 Construct Corps/CRG/No Fear Energy Drinks/K1 Speed/Voodoo Ride/Gemstone Winery/TRG Porsche GT3 driven by Justin Marks, Andy Lally, Patrick Long, Joerg Bergmiester, and RJ Valentine. These guys did a fantastic job!! Andy Lally had a tremendous attitude about taking the 2nd pole position while Sylvan Tremblay, who lost his wife barely a month ago, took the number 1 seat. I spoke with Andy subsequent to qualifying and was greatly impressed with the outlook he had. Of course, he was a little disappointed about not getting the pole, but he was happy for Sylvan as he felt it was what he needed. I saw Tremblay after he got out of his car and the man was overcome with emotion. It was nice to see that Lally was more concerned for Sylvan than he was for himself.
The TRG team took first and second in the class. The # 66 of Ted Ballou, Tim George Jr., Spencer Pumpelly, Emmanuel Collard, and Richard Lietz was right behind the #67 at the end of the 24-hour race. What a terrific day for TRG with the #68 finishing 14th, the #63 finishing 18th and the #65 bringing up the rear of the TRG train!
I spoke with Andy Lally on several occasions over the 4 days we were at the Rolex 24 in Daytona. I have to say, Andy Lally has to be one of the nicest persons I have ever met. He is a kind, caring, selfless individual. He goes out of his way to sign autographs and visit with the fans. He remembers faces, names, and always greets you with a warm smile. Even when he is working diligently on strategies with his team, he takes time for interviews and photographs. He is a happy go lucky kind of guy who is not afraid to share his cheerfulness and enthusiasm, giving out hugs in Victory Lane, and thanking those who wish him well. Andy is truly praiseworthy and deserves all the success he has found in his career. He has earned every bit of it!
Finally, I just want to say “congratulations to the #67 and all of TRG for a fantastic weekend in Daytona!”
Oh! One more thing...my son who was with me at the Rolex, has epilepsy. While we were in the garages on Saturday prior to the start of the race, he had a seizure. A member from TRG was the first one to our aid. I didn't get the man's name, but he was quick in getting us the help we needed. I don't know who he was, but I am quite thankful for his assistance. In addition, someone from the #70 Syntec team also helped me take care of my son until the medics arrived. Again, I didn't get his name either, but I would like to send out a thank you to both men. Their help & concern was greatly appreciated.