Austin Wayne Self heads for the high banks of world-famous Daytona International Speedway and his NASCAR Camping World Truck Series debut in the NextEra Energy Resources 250 on Friday with focus and determination that belies his rookie status.
“We’re going to Daytona with one goal, and that’s to win the race,” said Self, driver of the No. 22 AM Technical Solutions Toyota Tundra. “Our team prides itself on strong performance under pressure, and doing well at Daytona demands that. We’ll give our all until the checkered flag and see how things unfold for us.”
The intense hype and history that surrounds Daytona is even bigger than the monster-sized track itself, and a young driver might be excused for letting the energy of such surroundings get the better of him when crunch time comes. The way Self sees it, however, success at Daytona necessitates maintenance of a workmanlike mindset and understanding the difference between excitement and emotion.
“The opportunity to race at Daytona is incredibly exciting,” Self said, “but you have to find a way to keep those emotions under control and stay poised. If you stay focused on doing your work the right way, you give yourself the best shot to be in position for something special to happen.”
Self, who finished second in the ARCA Racing Series standings last season, has been on a fast track to the upper levels of NASCAR competition. He is grateful for the continued strong support of fellow passengers who’ve been there for his ride.
“I’ve had outstanding support from family and friends from my earliest days racing go-karts, and I’m thankful to all of them for it,” he said. “We have a great group of partners including AM Technical Solutions that is committed to winning, and it means a lot to me. It’s been a crazy journey, and it seems surreal to have the opportunity to race in the NCWTS at Daytona. Hopefully, we can make ‘em all proud with our performance there.”
“We’re so excited to be sponsoring Austin and the No. 22 truck at what is arguably the most famous track on the NASCAR circuit, and to have our brand connected to the incredible history of Daytona,” said Kelly McAndrew, Chairman of AM Technical Solutions. “Daytona provides an enormous challenge for drivers, and we know Austin will be prepared to compete at a high level.”
Among Self’s family of supporters at Daytona on Friday will be a special guest of honor. Todd Fringer served as a Scout Platoon Sergeant with the 82nd airborne division in the Gulf War, and suffered a severe spinal cord injury. The story of how Fringer has pushed far beyond the life limitations doctors envisioned for him due to the injury continues to inspire.
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