Our trip to Christchurch went without a hitch--space available on all the flights. Yeah! So we arrived here on Friday about noon, the 23rd, contacted Larry by phone from the airport, and went directly to the race track where he was hanging out.

As noted in Update #5, all the cars are safely tucked away at the track and in great shape. A bit dusty, but no apparent effects of the long journey. It was really nice to see them all safe and sound. Amazing.

We don't race until next week, but there was a lot of activity at the track this weekend due to major races there including a national Formula Ford race which includes four young "Yanks" here on driving scholarships. One of the kids is Brian Millen, son of Rod Millen, nephew of Steve Millen. One of the four kids, Joe D'Agestino had a BAD crash at last weekend's race and busted his arm. He is here this weekend, but hurtin' for certain and headed back to the states Tuesday. Diane and I spent some time chatting with him as we all hung around the shop. A very nice young (fast) lad. His car only had one corner left on it, had to cut him out. Ugly. John Crawford's shop is providing the cars and support for the four Yanks.

We'll watch the FF races tomorrow (Sunday) and then Monday start to worry about getting the cars prepped. We hope to get in a day of track time to learn the track, hopefully Tuesday and again on Friday when more racers will be practicing for the weekend's races.

Kay and Larry's hospitality is, of course, impeccable and most appreciated. We'll stay with them for a few days but then go to our hotel when Elaine arrives mid-next week.

Weather report. SUNNY and 75F ('twas snowing when we left Denver, ha-ha). I'm already sunburned from one afternoon at the track and today's out and about. Bought a hat today. Duh!