Saanich race car driver Bill Okell will return to the tarmac on Feb. 22 - 23 during the second stop of the 2025 National Touring Series of the Sports Car Club of America.
The race will take place at the brand-new 10-turn Buttonwillow Raceway track, called the Classic Circuit, in southern California.
Okell and the rest of the field will have a chance to test out the track for the first time during a practice run on Friday morning.
"I'm a fast learner, which comes in handy when racing on a new track," explained Okell. "During my practice run, I will catalogue every bump and curve to try and gain an advantage."
Okell will once again compete in his 1990 MG Midget which has helped him accumulate 17 race class wins, and two SCCA Western Conference Championships.
While the importance of handling the car remains the top priority, Okell stressed the importance of communication with his crew chief Joe Carr.
"We are feeling well prepared ahead of the first race. [Joe] ensured me on Monday that the car is ready to go," emphasized Okell. "These alternations aren't necessarily going to make us faster, but help make the car more reliable which is a top priority."
With 50 years of wisdom behind the wheel, Okell says expectations on the race are different now than they were when he first started racing at 20. He lists three main goals heading into the first race of the season:
"First and foremost, let's get through the weekend without damaging the car. Secondly, being safe. I want to do this for a long time, which means that I have to be careful. And lastly, I want to hone in on my craft. Let's see how good we can get."
Regardless of altered expectations, Okell feels grateful for the opportunity to continue to compete.
"I still feel like I'm 35," highlighted Okell. "Most of my friends my age have retired from their industry, which makes me feel even more thankful that I still get to compete."
