Spirit of Daytona Racing Open House Draws Fans, Drivers, VIPs to New Facility

Ricky Taylor, newest member of Spirit of Daytona Racing, couldn’t quite believe his eyes looking over the multitude of well-wishers who assembled for last weekend’s open house. “I was blown away by the amount of people,” said Taylor. “I have never seen such a large turnout for an event like this.” Taylor was the guest of honor, along with the team’s new race facility in Daytona Beach. The event celebrated Spirit of Daytona’s successful 2012 season racing the Corvette DP in its inaugural campaign. It also served as fundraiser for GRAND-AM’s official charity, Camp Boggy Creek

Corvette clubs from as far away as Miami and Georgia were among invitees – and they came in large numbers. Corvette owners, who participated in a show-and-shine, drove their vehicles through the facility’s atrium for judging.

“We are happy to be able to celebrate a great season with our friends and families and look forward to continuing the momentum in 2013,” said Spirit of Daytona owner Troy Flis.

Taylor’s SDR teammates Richard Westbrook and Antonio Garcia were also on hand, as well as drivers and owners from other teams arriving early for this week’s test at Daytona International Speedway. Among the latter were Wayne and Jordan Taylor, Ricky Taylor’s father and brother and Max Angelelli and Joao Barbosa. NASCAR K&N Pro Series East competitor Ben Kennedy, whose operation is also housed at SDR’s facility, greeted fans as well.

“Corvette fans are an extremely loyal group,” said Westbrook. “They have embraced the No. 90 from day one and continue to show their support week after week.”

The event had many VIPs in attendance including GRAND-AM founder Jim France, Lesa France Kennedy, chairperson of International Speedway Corp. and NASCAR Executive Vice President Betty Jane France.

“This party was the perfect way for the crews of both teams to celebrate great seasons together,” said SDR Marketing Director Scott Taylor.