Old Dominion Speedway
June 25, 2011

Military Appreciation 150 Race

 

 

Today was a picture perfect day for racing. Overcast skies loomed over the speedway throughout much of the day. Afternoon temps were in the mid 80's with humid conditions. As the sun fell, a slight welcoming breeze graced the drivers as they took the green flag for tonight's main event.

Today's race would be challenging in more ways than one. This would be the first event that Dave would drive 150 laps straight. He and his father (Mike Daniels) worked on the car throughout the week and made numerous changes. They threw everything at it but the kitchen sink. Not knowing if the changes would work and concern about the length of the event was nerve-racking.

Dave would practice his #34 Daniels Auto Care machine twice before qualifying for tonight's race. His qualifying speed was 16.011 which placed him in the 10th position for tonight's Military Appreciation 150.

The stadium was rocking and filled with military personnel. The fun filled atmosphere allowed fans to enjoy and participate in tonight's festivities.


Just a small portion of tonight's crowd.
Verizon can been seen filming tonight's event for future broadcast on the Verizon network.

Eighteen cars would take the flag for tonight's event. Starting mid-pack can always be concerning, but the rookie drove a precise race; he took his time, was careful not to burn up his tires and picked his competitors off one by one. He demonstrated patience as he raced cars cleanly to get to the front. On lap 126 he took over the 4th spot, where he finished the evening.

Article "Inside Nova" quoting Dave about tonight's race

Dave Daniels notched a fourth, his best finish yet. Daniels started 10th and got around Dave Moon in lap 126 for the spot.
"This finish beats every win I ever had in my career," Daniels said. "To finish fourth behind Mike Darne, David Polenz and Adam Brenner is better than any win I had in Mini Modifieds."

Side Note - Although Dave enjoyed his career in Mini Modified's and was the track champion for two years in the division, he looked forward to the challenge Late Model Racing would bring. He respects his competitors in that division and has their support and help while moving to Late Model. He has said on many occasions that he was honored to race against men like Mike Carte, Keith Riley, Bobby Able, Scotty Gore, Paul Green, Chris and Todd Johnston, and Kevin Davis.


Nobody can tell me these guys do not get butterflies before a race.
Poor Dave looks like he is ready to toss his cookies any minute!


Dave's Charity 'Azalea Charities' banner flying high overtop our trailer.

ADDITIONAL RACE PHOTOS CAN BE VIEWED - HERE

AFTER RACE PHOTOS CAN BE VIEWED - HERE

If you have always wanted to be a part of a NASCAR race team, consider sponsoring Dave Daniels Racing.
Make a difference in a young mans future, and watch him soar!

Dave's Race Summary can be found - HERE

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our sponsors and our crew, Leo and Sam Farber, along with Keith Riley.
We would also like to thank all the drivers who offer words of wisdom throughout the race day.
None of this would be possible without them!

Daniels Auto Care AAA Approved, Rated #1 by Consumers Checkbook Magazine.
Ashcraft Associates The Internet's leading Insurance Agency for VA residents and businesses.
Shirt Art The Finest in Custom Screen Printing, Embroidery and Ad Specialties.
Valvoline Achieve maximum performance and prolonged life from their engines with Valvoline.

Dave's charity - Azalea Charities

 

Article and photos
by
Janie Daniels
6/25/11