Mazda Road to Indy Shootout
20th December 2018
First of all, seriously, what an amazing experience!
Out of the 18 drivers who had won a place in the shootout, I was very pleased to be picked as one of the 6 finalists, but obviously I was very disappointed not to take away the $200K. Having said this, I’ve had a week to reflect on it all, and honestly I am extremely proud of my commitment and performance up to, and throughout the event. I can honestly say that I gave it absolutely everything. It’s the first time I’ve ever been in a shootout scenario, and I believe I prepared to very best of my ability, there are definitely a couple of things that I could have done better (as always), but I have taken them all on board for the future, it all comes with experience.
When you do the math, of the people who were eligible worldwide, to make the final 1% is a pretty big achievement. I want to formally congratulate Hunter Mcelrea on a very well deserved campaign, you’re a class act buddy, and I wish you all the very best for the future. Fingers crossed I can pull a budget together for USF next season and see you on the grid! 🤞🏻
To all the other drivers competing, it was great to meet you all, a really down to earth group of people. A pleasure to be amongst you all, on and off the track. I wish all of you the very best for the future!
I want to say a massive thank you to all the judges, to Oliver Askew, Victor Franzoni, Tom Long, Andrew Carbonell and Scott Elkins. I learnt a great deal over the course of the weekend and I truly appreciated all the feedback.
To everyone from Mazda Motorsports, Road to Indy, Cooper Tires, Andersen Promotions and The Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving for running a truly amazing event and for creating a really friendly atmosphere in the process.
Furthermore, I want to thank the following people for their part in allowing me to achieve the result, and for their help in getting me to the shootout in the first place. So here I go:
Mum & Dad James Beckett MSVR Kevin Mills Racing BOLD Racing Engines George & Alex Vorrilas Lenny Tumenas Brad Danoff Neil Riddiford at Izone All my Friends & Family
What’s next?
So, I am staying here in America for the time being, whilst I try to sort out my 2019 season. I am totally focused and committed to running here next year in the USF2000 Series. I will make this happen!
Photos courtesy of Bondurant School, Mo Murray and USF2000 Series.
