Start Small, End Big.

Racing Reflections

Liam sat nervously in his seat aboard a private plane bound for Barcelona. His fingers fidgeted unconsciously as anticipation and doubt swirled in his mind. Beside him, Logan, his trainer, radiated a calm presence, unfazed by Liam's visible anxiety.

Liam: Logan, I can't shake this feeling of nerves. What if I'm not ready for this?

Logan, setting his phone aside, placed a reassuring hand on Liam's shoulder.

Logan: Take a deep breath, kid. You've trained hard for this moment—you're more than ready.

Liam sighed, staring out the window. His debut lap was just days away, and the thought of performing in front of thousands weighed heavily on him.

Liam: I know, but what if I let everyone down? What if I don't meet their expectations?

Logan met Liam's uncertain gaze with a steady, understanding look.

Logan: Let me tell you a story. Back when I was a rookie racer, I got my first shot at a rally. I was nervous—just like you. My trainer back then gave me advice that I've carried with me ever since.

Liam perked up slightly, curiosity piqued. Logan's experience was something he admired deeply.

Liam: What did he say?

Logan stared out the window, the memories evident in his expression.

Logan: He told me that nerves are part of the game. Every racer feels them, no matter how experienced they are. But the key is what you do with those nerves.

Liam furrowed his brow, intrigued but still unsure.

Liam: What do you mean?

Logan smiled warmly.

Logan: Nerves can be a powerful motivator if you let them. They can push you to perform at your absolute best—to dig deep when it counts. It's all about channeling that energy.

Liam considered Logan's words, his apprehension beginning to ease.

Liam: So, I should embrace the nerves instead of letting them hold me back?

Logan nodded, clearly impressed by how quickly Liam was absorbing the advice.

Logan: Exactly. And remember, you're not just racing for yourself. You're racing for everyone who's supported you—your family, friends, and this team. Let that fuel your drive, and you'll be unstoppable.

A newfound determination ignited in Liam's eyes.

Liam: Thanks, Logan. I needed that.

Logan patted Liam's shoulder, proud of the young racer's resolve.

Logan: That's what I'm here for. Now, let's focus. Barcelona awaits, and I have a feeling you're going to leave quite the impression.

As the plane glided through the sky toward Barcelona, Liam felt a calm settle over him. Logan's words echoed in his mind, reminding him that he was ready to face whatever challenges awaited at the Circuit de Catalunya. Looking out at the vast expanse of blue sky, Liam knew this was just the beginning of his journey.

*****

The skyline of Barcelona came into view as the plane began its descent. The pilot's voice crackled over the PA system.

Pilot: Welcome to Barcelona, the City of Counts. Touchdown in five minutes. Brace for landing.

Liam eagerly leaned toward the window, his eyes widening at the colorful, vibrant city below.

Liam: Wow... it's beautiful.

Logan, noticing Liam's awe, pointed toward the countryside visible in the distance.

Logan: Look closely—you can spot the Circuit de Catalunya.

Squinting, Liam caught sight of the towering grandstands of the famed track.

Liam: It's way bigger than I imagined. I've only ever seen it in games or on TV.

Logan grinned.

Logan: It's an impressive 2.894-mile track, with long straights and a mix of corners. But don't stress about your lap just yet. The race is on Saturday—it's only Monday. Take some time to explore Barcelona. It's an amazing city.

Liam: It looks like it. Have you been here before?

Logan: Yeah, for a rally. Spain's terrain is no joke—hilly, rugged, and unpredictable. Even the Circuit de Catalunya has elevation changes that can throw you off. You have to respect the track. One mistake, and you could end up spinning into a wall. Trust me, it's not pretty.

Liam: I never thought about how much the terrain could affect a race.

Logan: It's something you'll get a feel for during practice. I'll guide you through it on a few laps. Don't worry—it's challenging, but not impossible.

Liam: You said "usually" though...

Logan chuckled.

Logan: Everyone's different behind the wheel.

The plane touched down smoothly at Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport, taxiing to a private hangar.

Pilot: All clear. Safe travels, and good luck on race day!

Logan stood, stretching before turning to Liam.

Logan: Ready?

Liam: Yeah. Let's do this.

Logan: Good. Let's meet the travel agent—they'll get us to the hotel.

Liam: Travel agent?

Logan grinned knowingly.

Logan: Welcome to professional racing, kid.