Continuing with the Florida update.  We had several rain outs and only got to race East Bay once.  In summary the best part about Florida is that you get to test and tune for 3 weeks that would take 3 months back home.  As a result, we did have some challenges to overcome.  First we learned that I was running time trials with the car to tight.  Being out of the car for a while and being somewhat conservative, I was asking Kevin to make the car to tight to time trial well.  This would kill the motor and the speed in the car, which equaled slow time trial laps. …continue the action!

Last week we were able to practice at Ocala on Thursday.  It was a good opportunity to get back in the race car without the pressure of racing against other cars.  Honestly, I was a bit nervous considering my crash and the time out of the car.  The good news is that Kevin and the team had the car very easy and comfortable to drive.  At the race on Friday, we timed poorly, made some changes and really got going good in the heat race. …continue the action!

The cars are ready and loaded, complete with fresh motors and all the spare parts to make it through 2 weeks of tough racing.  We have also gotten our hands on a few Goodyear Racing Tires ready to do battle in Florida.  We’ll be starting out in Ocala, with practice on the 28th and racing at both East Bay and Volusia before we return to PA. …continue the action!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from everyone at the Trone Outdoor Motorsports #39 team.  My family and I also wanted to take time to thank everyone for the support and encouragement throughout my recovery.  I am clear to race and have completely healed from my back injury.  I encourage everyone to take some time to reflect and remember the true meaning of Christmas.  Secondly, it is important to realize how blessed we all are and how fortunate that we live in such a great country. …continue the action!

I am happy to say that I will be in the Trone Outdoor Special 39 car in 2010 racing season starting in Florida.  John Trone and I met and after a trying first year we are ready to focus our efforts on the 2010 season.  Kevin Frey will also be returning as Crew Chief.  We have all been working closely and trying not to loose the chemistry we were building before I got hurt. …continue the action!

Hey, I’m glad to be able to take a minute and give everyone an update on how I’m doing.  Since the last post, I was to see Dr. Trammell, neurosurgeon from Indianapolis, on September 4th to look at my x-rays and advise me on my condition.  Thanks to the Workmen family, owners of Kinard Trucking,  for the use of their airplane that flew me and my brother,  J. D.  out to Indy and back.  After about 4 1/2 hours, we met with the Doctor and his assistant, got some lunch and took an MRI scan.  The diagnosis was very simple – “do what I tell you and you’ll be as good as new in 3 months”.  The Doctor also indicated that my previous injuries would not be a danger of causing me any additional problems in the future.  Those of you that are familiar with Dr. Trammell  know that he has done extensive research and testing with Indy cars, Formula 1 and NASCAR, as a result, we spoke about safety. …continue the action!