Monday, 1 April 2024

Raceday in Richmond

Sunday we woke up to sunny skies in Washington on Sunday morning but the forecast for the rest of the day in Richmond was very unpredictable.

The day began in the best way with another tasty breakfast in the hotel. I got my fix of egg, bacon,sausage and hash browns with a much needed 
coffee.

After breakfast we had to check out of our hotel which had been really nice, the rooms were very nice and the service was fantastic. We really enjoyed the restaurant and especially the bar which was conveniently open each night we fancied a drink. I am glad we are here again at the end of the trip.

It took us a few trips to bring all 400 cases of luggage down from the 10th floor. Lots of others were checking out as well which meant space in the lift was at a premium.
I grabbed the last of the cases as Jill fetched the car. Then we were off south to Richmond.

We had a smooth ride down there which took about just under 2 hours. With me navigating and Jill driving proving to be an effective combination we found the best western glen Allen inn with ease.

As we were unloading out cases the heavens opened so we had to rush them in quick.

Once everything was sorted in the rooms we ventured out towards the race track but as time was in our side we headed into a nearby Wal-Mart to stock up on supplies such as bottled water and snacks. As we were in there it would have been rude not to have had a proper look round as Sam had never been in a Wal-Mart before. Somehow whilst going round there a pair of Wranglers and a new shirt just happened to fall into the trolley, along with some flamin hot Cheetos and mtn dew!

Once we could tear ourselves away we decided to head down to Richmond for the race. We were really lucky to park up right outside turn 1 which meant a short walk to the gates. As we got there about 4pm the heavens opened again and it remained shower up until about 7pm

After grabbing  philly cheese steak and fries we headed to the merchandise stands where I got to stock up on NASCAR merch with a couple of new caps, 2 t shirts,a hoodie and a set of socks. Sam and JIll each bought a T shirt.

As time was moving by quickly we headed to the fan zone in the infield. This gave us great access to view all the cars in their garages, Sam and Jill were amazed by everything and how close you could get? The best was yet to come however as we got to meet a number of drivers after they had left their drivers briefing? Jill was yelling at some of them telling them all we had come from the UK to watch them race. Ryan Blaney, Bubba Wallace, Tyler Reddick and Chase Elliott were just a few. Blaney and Wallace were so nice to Sam as well.

We were over th moon and buzzing after this, the rain was still coming down but we didn't care.
We headed to our seats high up in turns 1&2 with a great view of the track, beers in our hands. The rain finally stopped about it 7pm and We were very surprised to hear that NASCAR were going to start the race on a damp track in wet tyres. The first time that had ever happened in the sport.

Sure enough the engines fired at 7:30 and after a few laps under the safety car the race was underway! It was a great race that had everything from strategy, close battles and late race drama. Denny Hamlin took the win after a late race restart.

Once my rented scanner was returned we headed home exhausted but thrilled at what a great day we had.

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