Gardner Feels Need for Speed

GHS Federal Credit Union President/CEO Stephen Gardner has always been impressed with the Watkins Glen International Racetrack, and since he bought a new MINI Cooper this past February he’s been racing on it. Since Gardner began taking racing lessons from the Genesee Valley BMW Car Club, his staff has said they want a management succession plan in place. “It is just something I do to have fun. It is `racing’ in a very controlled environment with an instructor in the passenger seat. Really it is more about getting out there and learning how to drive on a racetrack than a competition,” said Gardner. “The best part of this experience is having the opportunity to be on that race track and really see the capabilities of this car. It is a great time.” The course starts off with classroom instruction about handling the car, how to enter/exit corners, what the flags mean and information about the track itself and gradually students increase their time on the track. Gardner has already raced for two weekends this year and plans to race a few more next year. “I’ve covered the Watkins Glen track in three minutes averaging 60 miles an hour and my top speed was 110 miles per hour on a regular straightaway,” said Gardner. “Next year I want to hit the Lime Rock Racetrack in Connecticut.” [email protected]