I am sure everyone has already heard that Magnus Racing and I have decided to go our separate ways for 2012. It is always a little disappointing to leave a team, but part of being successful is to know when it is time to go in a new direction. Both Magnus and I knew it was time.
So with that in mind, I already have big plans in the works for next year with a new team based out of Orange County. This will be great for me since it is so close to home and I will be able to spend much more time with the team. I don't have a lot of details on it yet, but I will definitely share any news as soon as I can.
We're still working on some potential Grand-Am or ALMS rides for next year as well, but at this point I don't have anything concrete or in writing, we are still weighing our options. I'm working hard to find something for Daytona since we ran so well there last year, I feel like I always have a shot to win when I roll in through the tunnel.
A few years ago I was able to do some off road racing, and that is something I would love to revisit in 2012. The Baja 500 and 1000 are extremely huge events that are every bit as prestigious as Daytona or Sebring, and I would love to get involved. I am always up for a new challenge, and joining an off road program, or even starting my own, would certainly be a great challenge.
On top of all of that, I am making a big push to increase my karting for next year as well. Not only do I plan to do a bunch more Craig Stanton Kart Days at CalSpeed in Fontana, CA, but I also plan to get my TaG and shifter kart out a few times. Karting is the best way to stay in top racing form since a kart can require more physical endurance than a car. Karts really pull a lot of G's so it is not only hugely beneficial to me as a racer, but also a ton of fun.
I'm really excited about what we already have for 2012. We have a great new program and car in the works, and I am really happy with where we are at as a team already. By the time the season starts we should be looking really good.
Craig
