I built a career out of racing. You instilled that in me, Dad. During those hours off-road and in the garage working on the Bronco, you showed me just how lucky I was to have the opportunity to have a vehicle, the ability to modify it, and the support to try new things.
I know you weren't always thrilled with all my modification ideas (you were right about the lift kit on the Ranger…, but you supported my passion just the same. And I'll never forget when Roger and I were knee-deep in grease and frustration in the garage, cussing up a storm. You went out and dropped a grand on a plasma cutter to help us out that day. You probably thought whatever we were trying to do was ridiculous, but you gave us the resources to do it anyway. And it still stands as a testament to your belief in us. I don't think I could've won a single race without that.
Roger and I built a business out of racing and off-roading. It's more than a hobby now; it's part of the family. My sons, Adam and Byam, now work on cars and race, themselves.
Adam and I just took first place at the Mint 400 in our Ford Ranger Raptor. He works with me full-time in the shop. He's currently rebuilding shocks on a project vehicle and learning to manage projects and keep the business running smoothly. Byam is pursuing his mechanical engineering degree while he works on his own Bronco.
They're both independent, creative and determined, just like you always encouraged Roger and me to be. Sometimes they drive me up the wall in the shop with their wild ideas and insistence that they know what they're doing, but I remind myself that they're learning and growing like Roger and I were when working alongside you. I try to give them the space to be independent. And they've made it fine this far, so I guess I'm doing something right.
"Everything has a way of working itself out." You said that all the time. It's gotten me through tough races, business challenges and even the everyday struggles of being a father. When things seem impossible, I remember your words and keep pushing forward.
Adam and I are heading to Australia soon to race the Finke Desert Challenge the week before Father's Day. It's going to be an amazing opportunity to spend time together, doing what we love. It reminds me of all those years we spent Father's Day at Spring Crandon, racing and making memories as a family.
I keep pushing , keep challenging myself, and it keeps working out, Dad. It's what you taught me.
Love always,
Brad
