Daytona day 1. A Tale of two practices.

Today was the first day of on track action and it didn't start the way we had hoped. Going into the day Marcelo had never done a lap at Daytona International Speedway. Getting in lap times and track time is valuable, especially with a 44-car grid and many rookie drivers aiming to do the same. Saito had the car prepped and ready to get him going.

On the word go, Marcelo left the pit lane having a plan and purpose, however the housing for the oil filter had another idea and decided to let go. First lap out it goes toa red flag because of us. All of that anticipation to release and have a part like the housing for the oil filter to break. Marcelo got the car and engine moved over and shut down so it could be brought back to the paddock. No laps for the first session and team anxiety.

As we put together the options which in situation like this you have a few, the rest of the field turn laps. Having a backup car is handy, but you have to make a choice and stick with it. Switching to the backup can be an easy choice, but is it the right one? The team jumped into making the change on the part and fixing the issue on the car. However, that choice is made not knowing how the engine can react. The work was done and the engine cranked, allowing tech to check in and okay us for the second session.

The late afternoon session arrives, and it is time to take two. Marcelo and the team have less anxiety and a bit more confidence. With the green flag waved the car sped off and grabbing track time and getting lap times was crucial. Through the day most drivers were having struggles with the bus stop. Marcelo was trying to link up with some drivers for the drafting, but red flags broke the session up. Getting through the session without issue was the goal and that was achieved.

Starting the season the way we did wasn't ideal, but when you get knocked down, the only direction you go is up. That is the plan for Saito Motorsports and Marcelo Paniccia. Qualifying is next at 11:55am with race 1 at 5:15pm. With a record grid of 44 cars, the weekend should surely bring excitement and fireworks. Stay Tuned!