Got to the track early again today. Was in line for the track walk at 8 am, but it didn't start until 8:45. It was a cool experience and was free, so if given the opportunity you should do it at least once. Jeff Burton, Clint Bowyer and Dale Jarrett got a ride on the back of the Coke truck, wish we could have gotten autographs but it was nice scenery.

It is amazing how high the banking is, you really don't get a good idea from tv.

We walked from pit road entrance to the beginning of turn 3. Once we got there, they were passing out little cans of Coca-Cola products. We each had one and I brought one home for my collection. Also, Elliott Sadler was there talking about what to expect from today's race. Congrats to Elliott and Amanda on their new baby, Wyatt.

After taking many pictures we headed for our seats to await the start of our first Daytona 500. The sun was out and it wasn't as windy, so it felt a little warmer which was nice for a change, but it still wasn't what I was hoping for. I really enjoyed Tim McGraw's pre-race concert. After driver intros and the parade lap, the race finally started around 1:20. We had first row seats along the front stretch between the start/finish line and pit exit. Luckily, Robby's pit stall was right in front of us, so I got great pictures and videos of the pit stops. It was an exciting race, I loved the sound of the cars going past and the smell of the tires wearing on the asphalt. It was also fun watching people chase their hats when the cars went by.

Robby seemed to have a great car and the pit crew did a great job not to lose spots. I was pumped for an exciting finish and then the pothole debacle happened. The two long red flags were frustrating, but they gave me some great photo opportunities of the drivers talking to each other on pit road. Unfortunately, the sun started to go down and it got cold. It also delayed our start to get back home, making Monday a long day of driving.

After a couple of attempts at a green/white checker finish the race was finally won by a good guy. Congrats to Jamie McMurray! However, the last corner wreck really screwed up a hard fought and well deserved great finish by the #7 Monster Energy Toyota Camry.

I really enjoyed Speedweeks. It is a great venue due to the proximity of restaurants, other business and attractions. The only time the traffic was bad was getting out of Sunday's race, but that only took 1/2 hour which was a lot better than the Michigan race. Everyone should go to one Daytona 500, I would definitely go back.