"NASCAR announced Thursday that Adam Brown, a Richard Childress Racing crew member for Ty Dillon's team who threw a sledgehammer at Kevin Harvick's truck in Saturday's Camping World Truck Series race at Martinsville,had been suspended indefinitely."
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One of the greatest challenges of men while competing is the control of emotions. It's not a new problem and really is not more prevalent in racing than in most other forms of "competition". The issue is that it is unproductive--does not really solve anything--and is a danger to the perpetrator as well as the victim. (Physically AND Spiritually). More... afterwards, the perpetrator tends to look a little foolish.
Scripture covers it:
Ephesians 4:26-31 is a good verse to review. And, as usual, there is an appropriate message in Proverbs 14:29: "A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly" and Proverbs 29:11 "A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control."
It is very difficult to find a job as part of a NASCAR Crew. Mr. Brown's career in NASCAR ended forever with one momentary loss of control. Actually, he is still fortunate in that the sledgehammer (a deadly weapon--it was a really BIG sledgehammer!) did not hurt anybody.
Anger is a part of being human--it is the control of it that makes one "wise".
As followers of Jesus Christ, the mission and purpose of our racing activities is to serve and encourage others by setting an "example" and providing Pastoral Care as a Chaplain for Racers For Christ, as well as Donald "Wayne" Strout and others competing online worldwide in IRACING---for God's Glory alone---bringing God’s Word to life in ourselves and in others.
SSP Legends Car Race October 26, 2013
Vast improvement over last outing. Slow at the beginning, but by laps 15-18, was running a four lap total consistent with track record. (22.76 average lap over four laps=91.03 seconds) while running by myself. Good racing conditions--low air temp and dense air---all cars were fast--leaders were turning 22.50 second laps. Still room for more improvement in corner entry speed and more throttle application on corner exit--I still need to cut 0.3 seconds per lap.
We were going through the corners here 9 mph faster than at Trail-Way.
We increased cross weight about 1.5% and car responded well. I think it will take more cross which should enable more and earlier throttle in mid corner to corner exit without too much push on entry.
This was the first race this year where I was not lapped or almost lapped by the leader--in fact we seemed to almost maintain our track position versus the leaders with about the same interval as at the time of the single file restart with them only gaining maybe 1/3 of a lap on us.
I lose a lot of position at the starts by being too cautious in anticipation of possible spins by competitors ahead. Need to stay closer to the "pack" early. These are really "sprint" races.
BTW: Pre-race Prayer was generously answered. We were blessed and protected the entire race.
Here is excellent video from Car #77 who drove a fine race.
We were going through the corners here 9 mph faster than at Trail-Way.
We increased cross weight about 1.5% and car responded well. I think it will take more cross which should enable more and earlier throttle in mid corner to corner exit without too much push on entry.
This was the first race this year where I was not lapped or almost lapped by the leader--in fact we seemed to almost maintain our track position versus the leaders with about the same interval as at the time of the single file restart with them only gaining maybe 1/3 of a lap on us.
BTW: Pre-race Prayer was generously answered. We were blessed and protected the entire race.
Here is excellent video from Car #77 who drove a fine race.
Dangers of Passing on the Outside
Special dangers exist when attempting to overtake on the outside of a turn. The "airborne launch" risk of wheel to wheel contact in open wheel cars is always present, but when passing on the outside, centrifugal force amplifies the tendency to roll and can create spectacular crashes. Also, the car being passed is struggling against centrifugal force in the turn and sometimes slides unpredictably into the overtaker's path. Sometimes it's almost completely unpredictable and the victim doesn't even see it coming.
Below is Jason Rochelle at Mountain Speedway--a wild ride.
You will note that in the last Trail-Way Legends Car feature race, I backed off when the white car unpredictably slid outside on the entry to the corner. Some drivers move to the right just before turning left. It is prudent to give these a wide berth. Be sure the reward is worth the risk. It also pays to really know the skill of the driver being passed.
Feature Race Video for Trail-Way Legends Cars 10/05/2013
Feature race. Still need improvement in corner entry. Making slow progress. Car handled well. Changed over to left foot braking. Two or three passes made early in race. First spin in a Legends Car (after 100+ laps) so perhaps I'm pushing a bit harder. Watch in rear camera view during last laps how fast the leader overtakes! Bob Stough (Car #7) is a very talented driver. We have lots of improvement to make.
Video from Trail-Way--Hot Laps 10/05/2013
Still making progress. Still too slow in my second outing here but much improved over last time at Trail-Way. Need to carry much more speed into corners. Need to get much more comfortable driving a loose race car. Felt God's presence and protection all evening!
Developing Speed on Dirt--A Eureka Moment?
Just completed my fourth race on dirt ovals. My rate of speed improvement continued, reaching times within 0.4 seconds of the leaders, but I was unable to perform at my best for every lap and I lost a lot of ground at the start. (I also made contact with another car late in the race--I'll cover that in another post.) Managed to finish 12 out of 16.
The car handled very well, neutral through mid corner and I was able to apply full throttle long before the apex. (Even after being launched airborne several feet as a result of the other car hitting me.) The car felt "fast" but I am still driving it much too slow. No doubt, now almost all of my "lost time" is in corner entry. I find myself mistrusting the track during corner entry. After some reflection and prayer, and checking some of the racing "literature" I ran across this advice:
Quote from Ultimate Speed Secrets by Ross Bentley.
"I found that I if I purposely made the car slide slightly from the second I entered the turn, I was automatically smoother and faster......I had no fear of the car suddenly taking me by surprise....the moment I learned this, I started winning races."
A reminder that God provides for those that seek his assistance thru prayer: James 1:5 "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."
Dirt track racing differs from asphalt in that the track is always changing. On asphalt, you learn where the limit is, develop a "speed sense" and duplicate the process each lap. On dirt, the traction limit is changing and if you are shy about testing the limit of your car, by the time you realize where the limit is, your competitors have gained many car lengths on you. You must slightly exceed the limit of your traction with confidence that you can take corrective action immediately. Ross's advice is exactly that. I highly recommend his book!
As most driver coaches know--many times it's not the car or the driver's skill that holding him back--it's what's in his head--fear of being surprised and losing control causing him to intentionally hold back and not drive to the best of his ability.
Sliding is an important part of going fast on asphalt--generally the car will be sliding all the way across the track from mid-corner apex all the way to the corner exit. Those that understand that "controlled" sliding during corner entry as well, will usually be the guys who win races---it is particularly important on ovals. It had taken me awhile to learn this in NASCAR and ARCA and again I needed a reminder.
Let's see how well I apply the knowledge on the next outing. I will be reminding myself of an important scripture: 2 Timothy 1:7 "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."
The car handled very well, neutral through mid corner and I was able to apply full throttle long before the apex. (Even after being launched airborne several feet as a result of the other car hitting me.) The car felt "fast" but I am still driving it much too slow. No doubt, now almost all of my "lost time" is in corner entry. I find myself mistrusting the track during corner entry. After some reflection and prayer, and checking some of the racing "literature" I ran across this advice:
Quote from Ultimate Speed Secrets by Ross Bentley.
"I found that I if I purposely made the car slide slightly from the second I entered the turn, I was automatically smoother and faster......I had no fear of the car suddenly taking me by surprise....the moment I learned this, I started winning races."
A reminder that God provides for those that seek his assistance thru prayer: James 1:5 "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."
Dirt track racing differs from asphalt in that the track is always changing. On asphalt, you learn where the limit is, develop a "speed sense" and duplicate the process each lap. On dirt, the traction limit is changing and if you are shy about testing the limit of your car, by the time you realize where the limit is, your competitors have gained many car lengths on you. You must slightly exceed the limit of your traction with confidence that you can take corrective action immediately. Ross's advice is exactly that. I highly recommend his book!
As most driver coaches know--many times it's not the car or the driver's skill that holding him back--it's what's in his head--fear of being surprised and losing control causing him to intentionally hold back and not drive to the best of his ability.
Sliding is an important part of going fast on asphalt--generally the car will be sliding all the way across the track from mid-corner apex all the way to the corner exit. Those that understand that "controlled" sliding during corner entry as well, will usually be the guys who win races---it is particularly important on ovals. It had taken me awhile to learn this in NASCAR and ARCA and again I needed a reminder.
Let's see how well I apply the knowledge on the next outing. I will be reminding myself of an important scripture: 2 Timothy 1:7 "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."
First Outings—Slow but Steady Progress toward the Goal
In
the Central PA Legends Series, you are required to start last, at the back of
the field, for your first three races.
That suited me fine since despite having a lot of “racing” experience on
asphalt, this was my first exposure to racing on dirt.
So, my first time
driving “Sunshine” was at Trail-Way Speedway on July 26, 2013. First time in a
Legends Car and first time on a dirt oval.
I admit to having a bit of apprehension, as a quote from
Hall of Fame driver Red Farmer about drivers switching from asphalt to dirt
bounced around in my head..”An asphalt driver is in for a world of hurt if he has no experience
on dirt," he said. Farmer (still
racing late models on dirt short tracks at age 80) thinks it may take a year or
two to fully learn how to drive on dirt. I certainly was not looking forward to
a “world of hurt”.
So “patience” and “caution” were the order of
the day. My research on the proper
setup, gained by a lot of listening and reading—learning from others' experience
as well as my engineering background, seemed to pay off as the car was quite
neutral and well behaved. I had been warned about the cars being “twitchy” but
my first impression was a bit different.
The car had enough power to spin the wheels and get loose coming off the
corner, but not more than other cars I’ve driven. The short wheel base makes the car very responsive--perhaps my experience in formula cars influences my opinion, but I think Legends Cars handle very well.
The only frustration was from not having
mirrors and knowing that I was slower than the leaders. I could not see or hear
traffic overtaking me until they were right beside me. Even though I tried to stay out of everyone’s
way by staying high, a couple guys got a bit impatient with me and butted my
right rear in the middle of the corner—making the car under-steer toward the
wall until they backed off. Also got a
couple “butts” to my rear bumper that I needed to repair after the race.
So at Trail-Way, I started 24th
and finished 18th, running about 2 seconds a lap off the leaders’
pace. (Got lapped twice.) I had prayed
before the race for good judgment and God’s protection—he had answered my
prayers—I was happy and thankful.
My assessment of dirt compared to asphalt is
that driving on dirt is VERY different.
Best description is: to me it’s like driving in fresh, deep snow—enough
traction to go fast, but slippery enough to require a bit of finesse and more car
control skill than on dry pavement. (I learned to drive fast in the Laurel Highland mountains of south western PA, in the snow when I was 16.) The most interesting difference between asphalt and dirt is that asphalt does not change much, but one night on a dirt track is like driving on three different tracks--the car handles much differently in the warm up versus the heat race and the again a big difference in the feature. And, changing racing lines really changes the way the car handles.
Since Sunshine had survived without damage,
other than minor bends to my bumper mounting tabs, I was ready to go again with my second race at
Path Valley, a sweet little ¼ mile high banked oval with beautiful mountain
scenery. Here on August 3I started last again, 18th, and finished 15th. I had moved up at Trail-Way solely by
attrition with others falling out of the race or spinning. At Path Valley—a milestone—I
actually passed someone! Still I was about a one second per lap off the pace of
the leaders but a bit of improvement. This time, I stayed low to keep out of
the way and only got lapped once. I had
prayed before the race for good judgment and God’s protection—he had answered
my prayers—I was happy and thankful again.
Being slow at this point was pretty much
because of my being conservative on corner entry. I’ve never been throttle shy,
so full throttle off the corner, even if very loose requiring a lot of opposite
lock is not an issue. Sliding out to the wall is not an issue either. Losing control by being too hot on corner
entry was a concern. My definition of a
race car driver is someone who maintains control of his car while going fast—testing
the limit without going over it. Plus my
racing goal is to be a Chaplain and an Ambassador of Christ, so setting a good
example by using good judgment was important—being “Salt and Light” as we as
Christians are supposed to be in the world. (Matthew
5:16 NIV) “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good
deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
My confidence increasing, the goal for the
next race was to work on increasing corner entry speed. On to my third race, at Lincoln Speedway on
August 24. Not knocking any of the other
tracks, but to me, Lincoln seems like the dirt track equivalent of Charlotte
Motor Speedway—a very nice and "classy" track with a lot of spectators. (This race attracted
a big field of more than 30 Legends Cars.) Plus, most of my family decided it
was time to come out and watch the 62 year old Grandpa race. So four of my Grandchildren (Age 4 thru 14) were in the stands, along with their parents,
two of Carol’s sons and one Daughter-in-Law. A little bit more pressure than usual. (Since I’m not yet running out front, nobody
is paying much attention to my driving, but I did want to set a good example
for the Grandsons and Granddaughter with at least a “respectable” performance.)
In the warm up, I charged the first corner,
held wide open throttle longer than usual and trail-braked into the corner.
Surprise! The previously “neutral” car
was now VERY loose with the back end coming around a lot as I entered the
corner. Actually, it was not that much
of a surprise…many times a car will be tight in the corner..until you start
driving it hard. The good thing---the
car responded predictably to my opposite lock correction and moved from tight
to loose with throttle modulation. I
changed the right front brake bias a bit for the Heat Race.
Starting last as usual, the car handled
great. Jousted with another car for
several laps and was able to pass him using the classic late apex
strategy. Did not qualify for the
Feature, but was assigned (earned) a 6th place starting position in
the Consolation Race, giving me a long shot chance of making the Feature, but I
opted to follow the rules.. and again started last—11th.
With more confidence, I charged the first
corner when the green flag dropped and passed one car. Unlike at Trail-Way and Path Valley, I was able to keep up with the pack and even
passed one more car in the short race, finishing 9th. Probably should not have made that right front brake bias adjustment as the car was way too tight on entry and mid corner. I also probably could have gone faster if I had reduced my tire pressure and ran a higher line. The best news, only about 0.6 seconds per lap
off the pace needed to win. Still not a scratch on the car and no mechanical
problems. God had again answered my prayers for good judgment and protection
and I was grateful. (The power of
faithful prayer is truly awesome!)
Despite running three races, I was humbled to
realize that because the races are so short, I still have a total of less than
an hour of “seat time” in the car and on dirt. Experience teaches that it takes
several hours of “seat time” to become really competitive—probably a full year
of racing short dirt oval tracks. Like every "athletic" sport, lot's of focused practice is required to develop "instinct" which is the basis of going fast while retaining control in a race car. So far, our rate of improvement is steady, cutting our "behind the leader" gap by about 50% each outing.
But, God teaches that patience and
perseverance are important parts of living according to his design for us. With constant and continuous improvement, along
with humility and a gentle nature, people will begin to notice the Cross displayed
on “Sunshine” and the good news message of hope for all that it symbolizes. John 3:16 That’s
the goal.
Sunshine is ready!
We begin a new phase of our racing as a Chaplain with Racer's for Christ, competing in the Central PA Legends Series--bringing attention to the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Racing on dirt ovals in the Hanover, PA area. Car is named "Sunshine" and carries the #8--the Biblical # for a New Beginning. Team is still named Follow the Son Racing displaying the Christian symbols of the sign of the fish and the latin cross of St. George adopted by England and others as the "Banner of Victory".
First race is scheduled for Trail-Way on 7/26/2013, followed by Lincoln on 8/10/2013.
First race is scheduled for Trail-Way on 7/26/2013, followed by Lincoln on 8/10/2013.
Spent a great deal of time upgrading the driver environment with a new full containment seat having lumbar support, new seven point harness, fire suppression system, new steering wheel and new padding throughout. Also new shocks and springs with a set-up for my driving style. I've competed on a lot of ovals (Nascar Winston Cup, Formula 2000, Formula 1600, and Late Model): Sanair Canada, Rockingham, Richmond, Pocono, North Wilkesboro, Texas World, Concord, and Dover, but this will be the first time on dirt! It will also be the first time in a car that does not use anti-roll bars. Engine and drivetrain seem in good shape, but we won't know how it runs on the track under power until our first outing.
Taped to my dash is a checklist that includes a reminder: "Remember the Two Most Important Commandments". It is easy to get "caught up" in the heat of competition. That is one of the "messages"---that loving God and one another while doing one's best in every effort is much more important than winning. That is the example we hope to set. Pray for us!
God created us for a purpose, but he takes pleasure in our recreation, especially when we keep our attention on Him.
Here's a YouTube in-car video taken by my friend Rick Miller--an accomplished racing veteran of Central PA Legends. This on is at Lincoln in Abottstown, PA. (Click on link for smartphone or video on YouTube for PC)
Pre-Race Prayer
Whether it's called a Pre-Race Prayer or an Invocation, praying before a race is a good thing. It is written:
Philippians 4:6
New International Version (NIV)
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Pre-Race Prayer
"Almighty God, we are thankful for this opportunity to gather together at this racing event, to celebrate life together and have friendships based on our shared interest in racing.
We ask boldly for your protection from danger and for your blessing on the spectators here as well as the judgment, skill and preparation of the drivers, workers and officials. Help us to remember one of your two most important commandments: to love and respect one another. We ask this in your mighty name. Amen "
Pray with other Christians….and stay "connected"
Matthew 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them
Pre-Race Prayer
"Almighty God, we are thankful for this opportunity to gather together at this racing event, to celebrate life together and have friendships based on our shared interest in racing.
We ask boldly for your protection from danger and for your blessing on the spectators here as well as the judgment, skill and preparation of the drivers, workers and officials. Help us to remember one of your two most important commandments: to love and respect one another. We ask this in your mighty name. Amen "
Pray with other Christians….and stay "connected"
Matthew 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them
Knowing God's Will for Our Actions
Perhaps the most profound question asked by every believer is, “How do I know what God wants me to do?” Some claim that their actions or decisions are the result of God putting a certain desire “on their heart”. Others wait for a “sign” or confirmation of what God wants them to do. I think one must be careful to not oversimplify.
In the 32nd Psalm, a special message written by David as one of his “maskils” or “special teachings”, he writes: “I (God) will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I (God) will counsel you with my loving eye on you. 9 Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding, but must be controlled by bit and bridle.”
God did not create us to be like a horse waiting for instructions as to which direction of path we should take. He created us with intelligence to make decisions on our own. God created us with a capacity for aspirations and desires. Some of these desires are consistent with God’s will—some are not. One must be careful about making conclusions that a particular aspiration or desire “on our heart” is according to God’s will or not. It is written: “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure,” Jeremiah 17:9
The first action one should take when undertaking the task of indentifying God’s will is prayer. Pray to God constantly—be in constant fellowship with him.
The second action should be to study the Word of God, generally and specifically. Generally as a matter of your Christian Walk and specifically to determine what it has to say about the specific question you have.
The third action should be to allow God to speak to you through others. I believe this is the most common way that God “communicates” with us---through others. Seek the “Counsel of Many”. LISTEN!!
Fourth, examine your present circumstances and see if they are consistent with the path or decision you are contemplating.
But have not we heard “God does not call the equipped. He equips the called?” Have we not been told that if we are doing “God’s will” he will give us all we need to get the job done? I believe this is true and is consistent with Hebrews 13: “ 20 Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, 21 equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever.” There are many examples of God working through ordinary people—equipping them to do according to his will. But that does not mean that God will bless and equip us to fulfill every desire we deem, on our own, to be according to God’s will. In fact, most of the time when God has miraculously “equipped” the improbable, the calling was not part of that person’s “heart’s desire”.
If you have a terrible singing voice and can’t carry a tune in a bucket, God is probably not calling you to be a Gospel singer—no matter how strong your desire to be one. In most cases, God has given you the talents and abilities to reach the goals he desires for you. Look for “evidence” that is “beyond a reasonable doubt” that God’s plan for you is consistent with your desires by checking all four “resources”—all of which by the way are provided by God for you. On the other hand, don’t be afraid of obstacles that might be in your path—when doing God’s work, according to his will, anything is possible. If God has placed you at the “fork in the road” do not allow fear to influence your decision.
Then, finally, be on the lookout for the “fruit” of your actions. If it is part of God’s plan, good “fruit” will be the result. For as taught in Romans 8:28 “God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Blessings,
Chaplain Wayne Strout
stroutmail@yahoo.com
After a 25+ year
hiatus from racing, Wayne will be racing his Vortech Formula Vee this year in
SCCA National and Regional Competition. In the 1980’s he was a SCCA Division
Champion in GT1 and raced in the Trans Am series. He also raced Formula Ford
and Formula Vee in SCCA and competed in NASCAR Winston/Nextel/Sprint Cup. Wayne is an Investment Manager/Economist and the
Grandfather of nine. He lives with his wife Carol in Central Pennsylvania.
A Theology of Competition
A Theology of Competition?
For
many years I have been intrigued by the tension men feel when contemplating the
scriptures, words from our Lord himself speaking about his followers: John 17 15 "My prayer is not
that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, even
as I am not of it." AND, the Lord himself speaking to his followers: Matthew
5 14 “You
are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp
and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light
to everyone in the house. 16 In
the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good
deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
We are clearly here “in this world”. Which activities of the “world” are we to avoid and in which activities are we expected and even encouraged, to participate?
Can a Christian be engaged in competitive business with the goal of winning—being successful? Can a Christian be engaged in competitive sports with the goal of winning? Clearly there is disagreement as to the correct answer. I do not take the self-righteous attitude that I have the only truth, but I have come to peace with an answer that works for me that seems logical and consistent with scripture.
A quite thorough discussion of this subject is covered in a white paper titled God of the Games: Towards A Theology of Competition whose abstract states: “The purpose of this paper is to explore a theological view of competition. Competition is so engrained in economic and social systems that even Christians fail to ask what God thinks about it. Is the God who is Love also the God of the competitive atmosphere of sports, business or law? Or, as many Christians think, does God hate competition and want Christians to avoid it? The answer is surprisingly complex.”
According to the authors, contemporary Christian thought can be placed into one of four categories or mutually exclusive states: 1) Christ Resists—this point of view condemns competition because it is an evil entrapping the Christian. Christ-likeness and competitive desires are inherently opposed and irreconcilable; 2) Christ Reforms—this point of view acknowledges the “potential” evil resulting from competition but believes Christians have a duty to participate in it and reform it; 3) Christ and Competition in Partnership—God created competition to be good for man’s benefit and for God’s glory; and 4) Christ and Competition in Paradox—Competition is neither condemned or encouraged as it can be good or evil, like the “world” Christians are called to be “in” but not “of” competition.
While clearly God calls some to
the “monastic” life (State 1 above) with a withdrawal from the “world” and it’s
evil ways, I would argue that scripture clearly calls the vast majority of
Christians to the words of Matthew 5 instructing us to let our “light shine
before others” by participating in the world, not withdrawing from it. Some are called to far off lands on “missions”---others
are called to be “missionaries” to “minister” to their neighbors and colleagues
while engaged in “worldly” commercial and recreational activities.
I think as Christians we are
called in our “life ministry” to display the gentle characteristics of the shepherd.
But a study of David, a “man after God’s own heart” shows that even shepherds are
sometimes called to engage in less than gentle activities, like slaying the
lion, when necessary. Sometimes, as men, we are called to be a kind and gentle,
but very masculine, testosterone filled knight
to serve and glorify God in the world. Competition
can be a part of our lives where men are sometimes called to act consistent
with our created role as kind and gentle, but very masculine, testosterone filled
knights. You will not find any words in Scripture that state: “Thou Shall Not Compete”. Neither will you find any commandments “Thou shall compete”. You will find many passages that tell us that our motives and attitudes are critical to behavior that is pleasing to God. In the Bible, competition seems to be a part of the human condition that can be turned towards either good or evil, depending on the goals and the motivations of the persons involved. The individual’s use of competition, like other areas where power is present, makes it good or bad.
The love of God is our first commandment. We are warned about the love of Money, as well as the Love of Victory. We are told that the two most important commandments are to Love God and Love One Another. We must be careful when competing that we comply with those commandments. We must also remember that Pride is the source of much evil and excess Pride is inconsistent with a successful Christian life.
John Calvin, the important theologian of the Reformation argued that human activity, carried on in obedience to God’s law, was an expression of His will as it related to the coming of the new heavens and earth. Therefore, competition, a human activity, has a place in God’s plan and the Christian can freely participate in it, but must be careful to do so in love. In individual competition, the Christian is to glorify God, and be free from pride, vindictiveness and the love of victory. We accept winning as the result of God’s will—not man’s will and especially not our own will.
Several months ago I wrote an article entitled “Why
we Race.” I asked, “Is racing an activity consistent with God’s plan for
Christian life?” I could have used the title “Why we Compete” and the question
could have been, “Is competitive business or politics consistent with God’s
plan”. The answer—“It depends!”
Money is not evil, but the love of money is the source of much evil. Similarly, competition is
not bad, but the love of glory solely for your own vanity, power, recognition
and advancement, at others’ expense, can be troublesome. Some will recall the 1981
movie “Chariots of Fire”. It is based on a true
story about how a non-Christian athlete (Harold Abrahams) and a Christian
athlete (Eric Liddell) both won gold medals in the 1924 Olympics. It is an
interesting study of how two people can achieve the same glorious human prize
with different motivations, reasons, and methods. Liddell raced to bring honor
to God and to give God pleasure by displaying God’s gifts. Abrahams raced for pride, to prove himself
better than others.
Rick Warren in his book the “Purpose-Driven
Life” teaches that one of the main reasons for our existence is to please God. Another
is to enjoy real fellowship with other men and women. God has created us “in his image” and
accordingly gives each one of us a strong drive and aspiration towards mastery.
As God is the master of his creation—he gets pleasure when we display our own
mastery over our creation/s. He has also given each of us unique and special
gifts. He gets pleasure when we use and
display these gifts for the right purpose/s. I
think this quote from Eric Liddell sums it up. “I believe God made me for a purpose, but he
also made me fast. And when I run I feel His pleasure.”
Remember, God made you for a purpose. If God meant you to race, he also made you
capable of being fast—displaying a mastery of machine and speed. So when you race, race for the “right” reason
and you will feel God’s pleasure. And……what’s the “right” reason?
Scripture gives the answer:
“whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” 1 Corinthians 10:31 and “Love your neighbor as yourself”
Matthew
22:39
Soli Deo Gloria! For the Glory of God Alone
Blessings,
Chaplain Wayne Strout
stroutmail@yahoo.com
After a 25+ year hiatus from racing, Wayne
will be racing his Vortech Formula Vee this year in SCCA National and Regional
Competition. In the 1980’s he was a SCCA Division Champion in GT1 and raced in
the Trans Am series. He also raced Formula Ford and Formula Vee in SCCA and
competed in NASCAR Winston/Nextel/Sprint Cup.
Wayne is an Investment Manager/Economist and the Grandfather of nine. He
lives with his wife Carol in Central Pennsylvania.
Winning is Fun! But, What about Losing?
Back in June I wrote: “25 years ago,
I raced for my own glory. Now, I race for God’s glory…seriously. This weekend on 6/10/2012, at the MARRS race event at
Summit Point, WV, we finished in first place in Formula Vee. An exciting race
it was, with many lead changes and very close competition. This was our third
race this year at Summit Point and only our fourth outing in the car…after a 25
year hiatus away from SCCA racing.
When something extraordinarily good happens—give God the
credit and glory. Read Romans 8 28 “And we know that in
all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called
according to his purpose.” His providential
hand is always in it. He gives the skill, ability and judgment. He brings the
right people together at the right time and place. And, he provides protection
and guidance---all for his purpose, and almost always because of the “right
kind” of prayer.”
Again at Summit Point on 09/01/2012, we
finished in First Place in Formula Vee. A little less exciting as we led the
entire FV race, but still just as satisfying. (Video available at WS Speed
Analytics site and on YouTube as MARRS 12.) As I said, when something good
happens—Give God the credit and glory as his hand is always in it. So be it this time too. It is always fun to “do
well” when you know God has blessed your effort.
MARRS 13 on Monday, 09/03/2012 was a
different story and not as much fun. (Video is available at WS Speed Analytics
site and on YouTube as MARRS 12.) I did not start from the pole because of
traffic during qualifying and became very frustrated during the early part of
the race as traffic and race “action” was different than what I expected. It
seemed like many drivers were racing as if every lap was the last lap of the
race. I managed to gain the lead after several laps, but then became too
conservative and “the pack” with help of the “draft” passed me at the end of
the long straight. I tried to give racing room to one “dive bomber”, going wide
in turn 1, but my speed was too fast for the line—I drifted off the outside of
the track and spun—an amateur mistake.
Then, as I began catching up, I passed another competitor and made
another amateur mistake—locking up a rear brake while trail breaking into a
corner and spinning—again! Despite turning the fastest lap time of the race, I
finished way back—almost last—my worst finish of the year.
What a contrast! So what was going on?
Take a minute and again read Romans 8 28 “And we know that in all things God works for
the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose”.
So
God was at work on Friday AND Monday, for my good when I won AND when I lost!
It was very clear that I was under God’s protection during my spins—not a
scratch on the car or me.
For many, and especially in my case, figuring
out what “good” could possibly come from losing was hard. It has taken me at
least six weeks of deep thought and prayer. I re-examined the appropriateness of “Competition”
by Christians. I re-examined my belief that my racing was part of God’s plan
for me. I am pleased to say that this
re-examination and prayer is probably exactly what I needed and what God
intended as I have learned a lot.
First, in every competition there are winners
and those who do not win. On 09/03/2012,
I am pretty sure the results were according to God’s plan for me but also for
the driver who won. That driver, a
friend and a good man, won the MARRS FV Championship for 2012 and for him,
winning the Championship AND the last race was important.
So what have I learned? First and most importantly- For Christians, competition
is NOT all about winning. To most “worldly” unbelievers, this seems utter
non-sense. But God’s intent for Christians is that competition should be all
about the “love of Competition” and NOT about the “love of Victory”. It is the love of Money that is the root of
evil—not Money itself nor the “competitive business” activities that are
rewarded with Money. It is the love of Victory that is the root of evil—not Victory
itself nor the activities (competition) that are rewarded with Victory.
(I will be writing a separate and complete
post all about Christians and competition.)
Excess Pride is always a sin. It is hateful
to God and is the cause of most evil.
(It is my personal weakness and only with the Grace of Christ am I able
to overcome it.) Excess Pride is always
the underlying current beneath a love of Victory. A love of Victory focuses our attention on
defeating others rather than simply doing our best and glorifying God. A love of Victory turns potentially beneficial
competition away from fellowship and performance toward ambitious rivalry and
conflict. In any competition there can
only be one “winner” and many times it will not be me or you that God chooses
to help win that day. So, I am convinced
of two things: A) I did not do my best
in Monday’s race when I “lost”—I will apply what I learned next time and
improve; and B) God’s plan that day did not include me being the winner—I needed
a reminder about Pride and he had plans to favor another driver.
Keep in mind that “doing your best” includes
having trust in confidence both in yourself and in God’s providence. When I “held
back” during that lap after taking the lead, being “prematurely conservative”--
it was because I did not have enough trust and confidence. (Funny how Pride and
a lack of confidence/trust can coexist!) Watch the video and you can see I was two to
three miles per hour slower than “normal” entering the most important turn 10-
beginning of the longest straightaway.
This whole racing season has been a wonderful
opportunity for a process of self-examination and personal spiritual growth.
Racing can be a way to further develop your relationship with God through
Christ—to be closer to him. It is that relationship and closeness with him that
is God’s desire for us.
In the end, I must say that I enjoyed winning
two races this year (40% of the five events we completed.) but after careful
thought and prayer, “not winning” produced even more reward/s! Romans 8 28 “And we know that in all things God works for
the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose”.
Blessings,
Chaplain Wayne Strout
stroutmail@yahoo.com
After a 25+ year hiatus from racing, Wayne
will be racing his Vortech Formula Vee this year in SCCA National and Regional
Competition. In the 1980’s he was a SCCA Division Champion in GT1 and raced in
the Trans Am series. He also raced Formula Ford and Formula Vee in SCCA and
competed in NASCAR Winston Cup. Wayne is
an Investment Manager/Economist and the Grandfather of nine. He lives with his
wife Carol in Central Pennsylvania.
How God uses Racing
God uses our interest and passion for racing as a way to quickly build relationships. Also, God can use racing to breakdown barriers and reach people that normally wouldn’t be reached. This opens the door to sharing with them that we have more than just a passion for cars and racing, we have a greater passion for Jesus.
History
 |
| Jim Clark at Indy 1963-1965 |
Ever since my Dad took me to the Indy 500 in 1963, when I was 12, I've known that motorsports and internal combustion engines would be part of my life. That was the year when the era of the old front engined race cars was coming to an end, replaced by rear engined ones--the first glimpse being the Lotus driven by Jim Clark, finishing 2nd that year. Still, the sound of Andy Granatelli's powerful but old fashioned Novi engines reving up was quite impressive. My Dad was a gifted mechanic with an extraordinary knowledge of automobile, aircraft and diesel engines. My early life centered around an interest in engines and vehicles. I became a Certified Master Auto Technician and a graduate Mechanical Engineer. I owned a chain of car repair centers and later co-founded a company that designed engine parts and components.
 |
| My Swift DB1 Formula Ford--1986 |
 |
| National Championship Runoffs-Practice in the rain! |
 |
| My TranAm Car at Brainerd MN--1985 Racing against the likes of Paul Newman and Bruce Jenner (Sponsored by Enginetech and Metal Leve) |
I tried my hand in drag racing at an early age, but quit to pursue my business career and take care of my family. Later, at age 34, after attending the Bob Bondurant Racing School, I competed in SCCA Club Racing (GT1, FF, and FV) and Pro Racing (Trans Am and FF2000). I became the SEDIV Champion for GT1 and competed for the National Championship in GT1 and FF. At age 36, I decided to form a NASCAR Winston Cup Team, building a 10,000 square foot shop in North Carolina where I built engines and did research using a dynomometer. I qualified for my first Winston Cup race at Dover in 1987. A serious accident at Rockingham convinced me that God had other plans for me. (The first lesson--I had let Pride cause me to ignore God's "still small voice".)
(One of the major benefits of these activities over more than three years was that my son, Donald Jr. was 14 when we started. He was actively involved and at age 15 actually served as my chief mechanic at some SCCA races---he was able to rebuild the Formula Ford transmission and cylinder heads at the track without supervision and faster/better than I could! He learned a lot from the experience and we grew closer together. Perhaps that was one of God's intended purposes for it all.)
My Winston Cup Car at Charlotte-1987
(Sponsored by Greyhound Package Express)
I went back to school and earned an MBA from the Wharton School. I used that education in Finance to serve others--helping other people manage Private Equity investments (As a CEO/COO) and to later help people on a local level as a Financial Advisor and as an Investment Manager/Economist. I became a diligent student of God's Word. I was ordained as a Ruling Elder at my Presbyterian Church. My life became less about me and my pride and more about living according to God's plan for me.
Fast forward to 2011, at age 60, I heard that still small voice clearly. (Read 1 Kings 19:11-13) Link: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Kings%2019:11-13&version=NKJV I was making a living as an Investment Manager, helping people find God's plan for them in regards to money and wealth. I felt the call that I could do more. God was not calling me to end my service to others regarding financial management. He wasn't calling me to be a missionary in some far off land. He was calling me to expand my service to others by using my gift for teaching to go out and encourage others to make God a part of their entire lives--including their recreational "weekend" activities. In other words to stay connected to God and Christ in everything we do. I realized that perhaps my background and interest in racing, as well as my participation might be the basis on building relationships. I was appointed, and volunteered as the unpaid Northeast Chaplain for Road Race Ministries and I purchased the race car that I intended to drive. (I would never claim to be a "great" racing driver, but like many others, I have a God given talent and aspiration to control and "master" the operation of a race car on a road racing track.)
The mission and work of Road Race Ministries is about providing Pastoral Care (Prayer, Concern, Understanding, Teaching, and Encouragement) to the SCCA Club and Pro Racing Communities--an entity of people that have their own culture and interwoven relationships. A special people who may or may not have an affiliation with a local church but in any case, seldom have the opportunity to worship together at the track.
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| See link to website below |
Winston Cup Past (Sprint Cup) 1987-88
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| Charlotte for Sponsor Greyhound Package Express |
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| First race at Dover, ahead of Cale Yarborough, beside JD McDuffie and ahead of Michael Waltrip. |
The Car
Photos are of car as configured and driven by former owner, Bob Neumeister of Colorado, sometimes known as "Nuby". He set fastest lap at Road America National Championships in 2010 and 2011.
I chose Formula Vee because it is a class based on the aircooled engine and basic chassis components from a 1960's VW. With limited modifications allowed, costs are relatively low and competition is spirited. Many of the top drivers in this class, although amateurs, have skill levels consistent with top professionals. Because of the high level of driver skill and limited horsepower (60 hp is a strong engine! My sons remind me that some lawnmowers are more powerful.) the class provides a reasonably safe but challenging experience at reasonable cost. Because competition is so close and spirited, Formula Vee races are sometimes the most watched events during the weekend.
The car's colors will change slightly for 2012 with the rear section remaining "sky blue" but with the front being changed to white. My permanent number in the NEDIV will be 8--the number that signifies "new" in the Bible and many believe is the number of Jesus who made everything new.
The car's colors will change slightly for 2012 with the rear section remaining "sky blue" but with the front being changed to white. My permanent number in the NEDIV will be 8--the number that signifies "new" in the Bible and many believe is the number of Jesus who made everything new.
Why we Race
Why we Race
Is racing an activity consistent with God’s plan for Christian life?
The answer—“It depends!”
Money is not evil, but the love of money is the source of much evil. Similarly, competition is not bad, but the love of glory solely for your own vanity, recognition and advancement, at others’ expense, can be troublesome.
Some will recall the 1981 movie “Chariots of Fire”. It is based on a true story about how a non-Christian athelete (Harold Abrahams) and a Christian athlete (Eric Liddell) both won gold medals in the 1924 Olympics. It is an interesting study of how two people can achieve the same glorious human prize with different motivations, reasons, and methods.
Liddell raced to bring honor to God and to give God pleasure by displaying God’s gifts. Abrahams raced for pride, to prove himself better than others.
Rick Warren in his book the “Purpose-Driven Life” teaches that one of the main reasons for our existence is to please God. Another is to enjoy real fellowship with other men and women.
God has created us “in his image” and accordingly gives each one of us a strong drive and aspiration towards mastery. As God is the master of his creation—he gets pleasure when we display our own mastery over our creation/s. He has also given each of us unique and special gifts. He gets pleasure when we use and display these gifts for the right purpose/s.
I think this quote from Eric Liddell sums it up. “I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I feel His pleasure.”
Remember, God made you for a purpose. If God meant you to race, he also made you capable of being fast—displaying a mastery of machine and speed. So when you race, race for the “right” reason and you will feel God’s pleasure. And, what’s the “right” reason?
Scripture gives the answer: “whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” 1 Corinthians 10:31 and “Love your neighbor as yourself” Matthew 22:39
Soli Deo Gloria! For the Glory of God Alone
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