With the postponement of the Mid-Ohio IndyCar event that was supposed to happen last weekend, which included rounds three and four of the Mazda Global MX-5 Cup series, I was able to change my plans at the last minute to attend the SRO event at Sonoma Raceway instead.
Although it felt a bit unusual because it was my first trip to California since last year (thanks to all of the current travel and event restrictions), it was nice to be in Northern California again. We had gorgeous weather all week for the well-attended event.
I was there with the CB Motorsports Touring Car team, and the SRO newcomers are campaigning a two-car effort this season. It’s been a lot of fun working with the team this year as the drivers have not only adapted to the series but are also gaining a better understanding of the cars. We’ve made forward progress as a team at every event, both on and off the track.
This was also the first time at Sonoma for both of the CB Motorsports drivers, and I’m glad I was able to be such a benefit to them in guiding their progress both from a driving and a setup standpoint. With Sonoma’s unique layout, including plenty of elevation and blind corners, local knowledge really pays off in being competitive at this circuit.
SRO has created a triple-header format for each weekend to make up for lost time. That gives the team more opportunities to achieve great results, and it gives the drivers a very productive format in which they can continue to develop their skills.
Although this season has challenged everyone’s ability to be flexible, and although I was disappointed not to be at Mid-Ohio with Mazda, I’m thankful that I was able to join CB Motorsports in Sonoma to share in their growth. Their schedule remains busy as they head to Road America later this month, where I look forward to joining them for continued progress in their pursuit of the Touring Car championship.