Paulie's Blog: Summertime brings (some) relaxation (cont'd)

On Friday, I went down to Dover for a few things. I try and get to as many Cup/Nationwide/Truck races as I can. I spent time between all three garages, as well as the media center, on Friday and had a number of productive meetings. I also spent a fair amount of time with Tim Lambert from Penske Shocks, as he and I are working on developing something together. The support that Penske offers is awesome.

Dinner with a bunch of my friends from the track was a blast! When I didn't think there was room for any more food, I watched one of my friends order one of every dessert in the place for the table to share. The dessert was awesome, but I thought I would need a wheelbarrow to get out. The carrot cake was killer, as was the cheesecake.

Saturday was spent working on a number of things for sponsors. As a driver, I really enjoy my position representing my sponsors. I enjoyed reading Martin Truex Jr.'s comments this week concerning Bass Pro Shops. Martin talked about how much he "fits" with the Bass Pro brand because he was a customer of theirs long before they began a marketing partnership. I've got a similar relationship with Briggs and Stratton, as I raced Briggs-powered go-karts long before they came on board as one of my sponsors. As an up-and-coming driver, I'm working to build strong relationships with companies that support us now, as well as with those who we may partner with in the future. One example is Toyota -- I'm going to Lithia Toyota in Medford, Ore., for an appearance this Thursday. I'll let you know how it goes in next week's blog!

The week wrapped up with some more family time. We celebrated the engagement of one of my cousins with a party in the afternoon. The entire family was there.

So although this may not sound like relaxation to you, it is to me. I hope everyone has a great week. I'm sure I'll have plenty to write about next week, as I'm traveling this entire week and we race in Roseburg, Ore., this Saturday. If you're in the area, be sure to come to the track!

Paulie Harraka, a native of Fairlawn, N.J., is a student at Duke University. He is a member of the Drive for Diversity program and races in the Camping World West Series for Bill McAnally Racing. Harraka won the 2008 track championship at All American Speedway.