What astounds me, after 5 years of running track days myself, is how fast and consistent Mark is, on an unfamiliar track, no less. The car is obviously awesome - saw it at SEMA and it's essentially perfect - but I'd bet Mark would have won it with any of half a dozen other cars, too.
This is what we shouldn't overlook in this hobby - driving is what it's about. The better you can drive, the better your car is. The better you can drive, the better you know how to build your car. Go out and find your local autocrosses, your nearest track days. I guarantee you, you'll get hooked. Turning wrenches and TIG welding joints will have a whole new meaning.
As for you, Mr. Stielow, I'm guessing you don't like anything that even slightly smacks of hero worship - and good for you. But I still have to say, Mark, I'm in this hobby because of the '96 Hot Rod article on the Red Witch. The vision embodied in that car inspired me, and six builds later, I have my dream car. Thanks, and I hope to lose to you in the next Optima Challenge
