The month of April to the racers at Rocky Mountain Raceways means new paint, new parts, and new dreams. April to the armed forces of the United States means, "The Month of the Military Child." Hill AFB has many activities throughout April to celebrate the children of their service men and women. One of those activities involved sharing our passion for racing with the children of the Child Development Center (CDC) located on Hill AFB. This year's event marks the fourth straight year RMR has participated in the CDC's aptly named "Race Day."

Race Day activities included our RMR drivers and their cars along with several prize drawings, hamburgers, cookies, popcorn, and lemonade. Most importantly though, Race Day brought out nearly 285 kids who couldn't concentrate on their school work because of what was in the parking lot. A caregiver at the center, Heather Hoover said, "The kids have been waiting all week for the race cars to show up!" Each classroom of children from 6 months to 5 years old were decorated with checkered flags, pit passes, and cutouts of race cars.

The roar of Mike Nixon's open headers brought kids to the windows facing the parking lot. Moments after all the cars were set up, the caregivers brought out their individual classes to enjoy the cars. Each class couldn't wait their turn to touch, smell, and see their favorite! A chorus of "Look at that one!" could be heard all over the parking lot. Dozens of kids got to sit in the driver's seat and get their photo taken while imagining themselves racing down the quarter mile or taking that last turn before the finish line!

Laughter and giggles along with ear-to-ear smiles showed the excitement only a child could bring made us all forget for a moment what some of these kids go through with parents on active duty. Carrie Gosik, parents advisory council treasurer, was seen chasing her two little ones as they bounced from car to car. "My husband is in Turkey for 15 months," Carrie said while grabbing one kid while chasing down the other. Dad missed out on today's excitement but this event helps his kids when he can't be there.

"The children love you guys coming out here," Nancy Adams-Leonard remarked as the children moved between the cars and the eatable goodies. Nancy is the director for the Child Development Center and expressed thanks for Rocky Mountain Raceways' involvement in Race Day. A community service like this reaches beyond big tires and loud engines. "These kids will be talking about today for weeks to come!" Heather Hoover said as the drivers, families, and staff cleaned up after the excitement was over. With kids telling their parents, "I want that one when I grow up!" just might happen as dreams do come true but you have to dream first. And these kids got to dream today!

Mark Pittman
Public Relations Director

Special thanks to the following drivers, crew members, and family for taking the time to bring out their vehicles for all to see!

Jason Aposhian
Mike Nixon
Tyler Whetstone
Ryan Burdett & Family
Todd Fegley
Max Rathbun
Lance Parker & Chance Parker