The Spirit of New Zealand Bonneville

First things first. I've got to thank my wife Pam. Less than a year after a massive car accident, she organised our trip, supported me, and suffered the heat, the pressure and the disappointment. There was nothing about this trip that was easy, and we were glad to place our feet back in New Zealand again. Secondly, a huge round of applause to Dave Mead, Richard Hollywood, Zac Price and those who went to the salt with us. It wasn't a holiday by any stretch of the imagination. We all put in the hard yards, but the stars just didn't line up. The US-based Kiwis Squeak Bell, Duane Jones, Tom Beaton, and Kiwi Steve all went above and beyond to help make the experience a success, and it was much appreciated. Thank you to all the Kiwis who helped behind the scenes back in NZ. The ones who continued to encourage me when I felt like giving up, and all the Give-a-Little Kiwis who donated some financial help, it wouldn't have happened without any of you. Even though the Gods of Speed weren't on our side this time, we had a great experience. We met some great people, learnt a lot, and came home alive and with the car in one piece. We have a few jobs that need to be done, along with some improvements we have learnt, and then we will reassess our position.