By Ric Federau, Contributing Writer
As you read the title of this article title, you’re probably wondering “what does that mean?” Allow me to share the thought process that is behind the title to this article.
Everyone has a drive within them that comes alive for moving forward regardless of their involvements. The process begins when we determine exactly what we want to do. Every involvement commences with one’s “first thought” geared to their next objective related to their agenda for participation. That being noted, we’re looking at a racers perspective when deciding how to plan and expand their craft and involvement to be competitive.
Once they’ve determined what they want to do, the driver will give serious thought as to how to go about obtaining their racing objectives. This is where the first part of the title (aka: “First I did”) takes effect. It’s a plan of action that’s started when they have the early onset for considering their future in snowmobile racing and what type / style of racing to get involved with. With that said, new drivers and race teams set their sights on the one race all snowmobile racers want to win, the BIG ONE aka: the Grand Daddy of all snowmobile races. I’m speaking of the International 500 snowmobile endurance race hosted at Michigan’s oldest city, Sault Ste. Marie. Where historically the sport of oval ice endurance racing as a professional racing event was born. Let’s take a look at the way this whole decision started and the thought process supporting a driver’s perspective related to thinking “I want to go into battle with competitive sled heads who are the best of the best.” This my friend is how the iconic phrase “ FIRST I DID” got introduced by new drivers. It’s taking the first step towards being pro-active to accomplish what their inner competitive desire wants to obtain. It’s like the outstanding marketing phrase developed by “ Nike “ athletic foot ware corp.
“ JUST DO IT. ” Another example is best expressed in the words of a famous self-help book author, “Earl Nightengale” who owns the quote… “ What the mind can conceive and believe, the mind can achieve.” This requires taking the FIRST step on the path to achieve success within the snowmobile racing community.
Once on the path to build a strong resume for racing at the famous International 500 (aka: SOO I-500) drivers will have a personal perspective and mindset about racing at the International 500 the first Saturday in Feb. You can be assured, each driver will imagine and anticipate what will transpire as they attempt to win and finish the 500-mile endurance race. Of course, to all drivers, team members and team owner’s major success is winning the famous I-500. New drivers will feel and realize the level of competition they’re considering racing against. By the end of the race new drivers will have experienced history and very unique information about the ole “Grand-Daddy” such as…. The International 500 snowmobile oval ice track is the “ ONLY ” mile oval track in North America. The anticipation for racing on this huge famous monster oval ice track with so many outstanding drivers and teams from throughout the U.S. & Canada can create additional positive anxiety to a point.
Fact remains, those who race at the SOO I-500 are true athletes they’re generally working out all year round. The drivers must be in good physical and mental health condition. It’s an endurance race that pits man against machine to say the least. The speeds and weather conditions will completely change throughout the 500 miles of racing. There are so many things that go through the minds of those who race at the SOO I-500 for their first time. Both drivers and teams understand the I-500 is equal to any professional type of racing bar none. The primary objective to win the I-500 is what it’s all about. The SOO I-500 fields a full race grid of 38 race sleds. Many more attempt to qualify for the I-500 and simply may not make the starting grid. The focus is on the 38 sleds that do make the starting grid. When the drivers FIRST decided to race at the SOO I-500 it was the introduction of the phrase “ FIRST I DID.” It’s done by taking that ‘FIRST’ step moving forward on the path to success. At the I-500 just completing all 500 miles (Laps) to drivers and their respective team members is a success, Therefore, it’s noted in the second part of the article title that states…. “ THEN I DID.” This finalizes and supports the fact that each driver and team who participates at the I-500 regardless of their finishing position, have basically achieved success while being an intricate part of the world famous “ SOO I-500.”
“ FIRST I DID, THEN I DID” This title relates to drivers, team members and team owners who race oval ice endurance racing and the I-500.
They get bragging rights to claim: “FIRST I DID, THEN I DID” certainly Interpreted as….. “ We came / We conquered.”
Once again folks, The International 500 hosted at Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. is just around the corner always hosted the “first Saturday in Feb. each year”. NOW is the time to confirm lodging for the 57th. running of the SOO I-500. Visit the I-500 at: www.i-500.com
Until next time……“Race’n doesn’t stop when the leaves fall ”
Hence….. “FIRST I DID” – “ THEN I DID.” SUCCESS !!! •