A JOURNAL BY SHINOLA DEDICATED TO JOY OF CRAFT

In the Driver’s Seat: Unveiling the Secrets of Speed, Skill, and Success from Racing’s Elite

BY Ashley N. Littles

We’ve waited for this moment, and now it’s here; the motorsport world will witness a momentous occasion as the Detroit Grand Prix, presented by Lear, triumphantly returns to the streets of downtown for the first time in 30 years. The anticipation is palpable and for good reason. Races of this caliber have hosted legendary drivers—captivating enthusiasts with their blend of raw power, skill, and unyielding passion.

As the event draws near, three remarkable drivers stand poised to showcase their unparalleled talent and set the streets of Detroit ablaze. Each possesses a unique story, fortified by extraordinary strengths and the tenacity to follow the dreams that have forged them into the formidable competitors they are today.

Before we delve into their narratives and discover what sets them apart, we must look at the element that brings them and us together: Time.

The Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear returns to the streets of Detroit on a 1.7-mile, 10-turn street circuit.

Kyle Kirkwood, the prodigious force behind the wheel of the No. 27 AutoNation Honda for Andretti Autosport, represents the pinnacle of emerging talent in the prestigious NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Hailing from the sun-kissed shores of Jupiter, Florida, Kirkwood’s ascent to success has been a testament to his determination and resilience. A champion across multiple tiers of motorsport, including USF2000, USF Pro 2000, and INDY NXT by Firestone, Kirkwood’s relentless pursuit of greatness has etched his name among the brightest stars in the sport.

Austin Green, the masterful driver commanding the No. 89 3-Dimensional Services Group Chevrolet Camaro for Peterson Racing, carries the torch of a racing legacy. Son of the esteemed 1994 NASCAR XFINITY Series champion David Green, Austin is determined to carve his own path of triumph in the fiercely competitive Trans Am Series. An epitome of ambition and discipline, Green deftly navigates the complex tapestry of full-time student life while embracing the adrenaline-fueled pursuit of speed. His ability to manage Time effectively sets him apart, showcasing maturity beyond his years.

Sting Ray Robb, the audacious pilot of the No. 51 Honda for Dale Coyne Racing, injects energy into the esteemed NTT INDYCAR SERIES, now his. Hailing from the serene town of Payette, Idaho, Robb’s journey has been marked by unwavering determination and an insatiable thirst for success. With an impressive track record in INDY NXT by Firestone, including a flurry of podium finishes and a resounding victory at Laguna Seca, Robb’s unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of greatness shine through with every pulse-pounding lap.

Image Compilation: From left to right: Kyle Kirkwood, Austin Green, and Sting Ray Robb, Indycar.com. “Kyle Kirkwood,” Indycar Series, www.indycar.com/Series/IndyCar-Series/Kyle-Kirkwood; Green, Austin. Instagram, 2022, www.instagram.com/austingreen2; Indycar.com. “Sting Ray Robb,” Indycar Series, www.indycar.com/Series/IndyCar-Series/Sting-Ray-Robb

Time is a currency for these extraordinary drivers, meticulously spent on and off the track. Each second, each lap, presents an opportunity to push boundaries, test limits, and chase the elusive taste of victory. Motorsport demands unwavering commitment, laser-focused precision, and an indomitable hunger for success.

As they gear up to conquer the challenging street course of the Detroit Grand Prix, their mental and physical preparations intensify. The unforgiving walls and unpredictable elements demand nothing short of perfection. The narrow track becomes an exhilarating and treacherous playground as these drivers summon their exceptional skill, focus, and determination to navigate every twist and turn with unrivaled precision.

Beyond the race, victory takes on a profound meaning for these remarkable competitors. For Kyle Kirkwood, it encompasses stability—a delicate equilibrium between the high-stress, adrenaline-fueled world of racing and the tranquility of everyday life.

We asked each of the drivers, what does time mean to you?

“Time is everything in racing. Even a 2/10 second difference can mean the world in a race and achieving that kind of improvement takes enormous precision. We measure our times up to the thousandth of a second to gain any little advantage we can get. Everything we do in motorsports involves calculating and perfecting Time, from our data runs to the running of the car. Time is the most important aspect to ensuring success”— Kyle Kirkwood

Kyle Kirkwood celebrates his first NTT IndyCar pole position at Long Beach. Instagram, April 15, 2023. www.instagram.com/kyle_kirkwood

Austin Green finds fulfillment in mastering the art of time management, skillfully juggling the myriad demands of a student, a race car driver, and a guardian of cherished relationships.

Green pictured after driving triple time for three teams, in three chassis, at three tracks, 2022, Instagram, www.instagram.com/austingreen2

“Time is everything. I enjoy staying busy and being able to manage my time well. With me being a full-time student, race car driver, and also having a job up at school, it can be pretty hectic at times. I am happiest when I spend my Time at the racetrack!”—Austin Green

Sting Ray Robb’s victory transcends the racetrack, intertwining with faith and family, providing solace and strength through prayer as he places his destiny in the hands of the God he loves and serves.

“As a race car driver, my relationship with time is unique. On the track, we strive to perform better with less time. However, off the track, time holds a significant responsibility in our livelihoods and career paths. To me, time means more than just seconds ticking away on a clock. It’s a way of life where precision is one key to my success. Ultimately, my ability to manage time dictates my ability to be successful, both on and off the racetrack.”—Sting Ray Robb

After a rigorous sprint training, Sting Ray Robb preparing to take on his first race of the season, 2023, Instagram, www.instagram.com/stingrayrobb

The Detroit Grand Prix, where all these champions’ stories converge, embodies far more than a mere race; it signifies the triumph of a city that refuses to succumb to adversity. Against the backdrop of urban reemergence and rekindled spirit, this race celebrates the resilience, passion, and unwavering love for the craft and sport that unites communities and ignites hearts.

As Detroit prepares to thrill the world from the driver’s seat of its downtown stage, the race and its champions promise heart-stopping action on the track and a profound sense of unity and shared exhilaration. The significance extends far beyond the realm of racing—it is a testament to the indomitable spirit of a city and its people.

As the roar of engines reverberates through the streets, the entire world will witness the culmination of tireless dedication, unrelenting pursuit, and boundless skill. Kyle Kirkwood, Austin Green, and Sting Ray Robb are poised to etch their names into the annals of motorsport history, leaving an indelible mark that resonates with fans for generations to come.

Prepare to be captivated by an extraordinary showcase of skill, determination, and the surprising poetry of speed.

These drivers stay ready to seize their moment of triumph. The countdown has begun, and the world eagerly anticipates the unforgettable spectacle that awaits on the streets of Detroit.

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