Winston Open Live Report by Patti Serge

We arrived late Friday evening and set up camp. We could hardly wait for the sun to come up, and head out for some shopping and socialization with fellow race fans.

This race we did not get too much of a "feel" of the race as we had been given Hendrick Motorsports Suite tickets. Excellent view of the track. We could look out in front of us and there was CMS in all its glory and lit up like Rockefeller Center at Christmas.

Derrike's car seemed to be handling okay. A couple of times he told his crew that the car was a little tight and would bottom out in the turn. The crew thought it was a shock problem. When they pitted they made an adjustment to the shocks and it appeared to fix the problem. Then it became apparent that was not the move to make. His crew chief told Derrike not to worry and that they could use this to learn things for the 600.

Derrike seemed to be making progress when I had the chance to go on the roof of the Suites. Talk about an amazing view!!!!! I could look right down on Derrike's car and see the top of it perfect. Unfortunately, I could not take a scanner. Derrike finished 11th but I really thought he had a better car than what he ran. Either way it was nice to be at the track and be lucky enough to have such a incredible view.

Am looking forward to the following week of racing and activities in Charlotte. Can't wait to meet everyone. C-Ya at the races!!!!!