05/21/2026
My 3rd Spec Miata race this year was a HUGE SUCCESS in my book! 🥳I finished the main race at 13th place out of 29 cars this weekend. (officially 15th since 2 cars DNF’d each other right before the checker OOPS) And for the very first time, I DID NOT CRY at a race weekend (it might be silly, but it was a huge milestone for me).
The success was not merely because of the finishing position, but rather a sense that something is starting to click, as many call it, “the power of the mind.”
From my last race, I started noticing how I drive inconsistently and often on autopilot once the exciting race-start is over. As a result, I would drive slower when no one is around and make mistakes that cost me positions. I acknowledged the issue and started working on it by actively thinking about every corner when I practiced on my simulator. And... just try my best to get stronger - daily pull-ups, pushups, planks, anything that help me better pilot a non-power steering car.
At the beginning of this race weekend, I unfortunately did not execute my new plan right away - I had avoidaable contacts, spins, and was not happy with how I drove. BUT, I knew what I have to do - I have to change.
On Sunday, I tried a new thing where every time I cross the start/finish, I would say “focus” out loud. Every time I’m scared of losing grip at a corner, I say “put your foot down” out loud. When I make a small mistake at a corner, I say “that’s ok, focus on the next one” out loud. I started proactively driving the car, rather than reacting to the situations. It might not work for everyone, but it worked for me. The reminder and positive reinforcement helped me had a confident, clean, and consistent final race at the end!!
I really see this as a turning point for me. There was a lot of mental uncertainty when it came to racing, but I’m now seeing clarity more than ever and excited to see where the future leads me in racing!
Also, I must emphasize - racing takes a village, and I truly felt that this weekend. ♥️ Huge thank you to those who made it happen:
