Monticello, NY–To say that the North American Amateur Drivers Association (NAADA) is having a busy year would be a gross understatement. Besides three local 10-race series–the third underway now- the members have hosted three European organizations; one from Spain, another from Hungary and a third from Italy; and now beginning October 8 and continuing thru October 14 they will host their counterparts from France.
And just a month ago NAADA members traveled to Palma de Mallorca to compete against the Spainards on their home turf.
According to NAADA president Joe Faraldo, one of two Americans who has won a race in France, his members will have to be at the top of their game when the French come to town. "We raced against them here four years ago and we came out on the short end. They're confident in their driving ability and they drive like professionals so we can probably expect another beating."
There will be a Competition at Yonkers Raceway on Tuesday, October 9 followed by one at Monticello Raceway on Wednesday, Oct. 10. On Friday, Oct 12th there will be a race–maybe two–at the Meadowlands
Drivers for the French team include Jerome Maillard, Ms Sandrine Oyer, Sebastien Campain and Jean Marc Freyssenge. NAADA will field different members at all three venues.
"We may win or we may lose but the results are not that important. The camaraderie shared is what is," Faraldo added. "However, either way, everyone will enjoy good food, good wine and a good time."
The following is the tentative itinerary:
USA/FRANCE Friendship Competition
October 8th – October 14th
Monday – October 8th 2018… Pick up at JFK airport. Transport to The Bentley Hotel
500 E 62nd St, New York, NY 10065
Dinner at Sel et Poivre 853 Lexington Ave 10065
Tuesday – October 9th. Free in the Morning. Pick up at 2:30 PM to get licensed
Race at Yonkers Raceway. Dinner in Little Italy of the Bronx
Ristorante Zero Otto Nove . Transport back to hotel.
Wednesday – October 10th – Pick up at 10:30 AM.. Drive to Monticello Raceway
Race at Monticello. Visit Hall of Fame in Goshen, NY en route to
Dinner at the River Palm Steakhouse , Mahwah NJ. Transport to Hotel.
Thursday – October 11th Pick up at 10 AM.. Professional New York City tour.
Tour guide will drop off at Pepolinos about 6:30 PM for dinner
Friday – October 12th Morning free. Pick up at 2:00 PM. Drive to Meadowlands for a race or two.
Dinner at Il Villagio
Saturday–October 13th International Trot and dinner at Yonkers Raceway
Sunday – October 14th Don Peppes for dinner then drive to the airport
by John Manzi, for NAADA