A triple-header weekend for the Road to Indy USF2000 series at New Jersey Motorsports Park elevated two new winners to the top step of the podium. Filled with threats of rain and shirt-soaking humidity, new faces climbed victory lane to be showered with cheers. The excitement of a new winner is always a wonderful moment. They emote a look of wonder and achievement, mixed with relief and pride when their helmet comes off.
For many drivers, victory is an elusive dream that never comes to fruition. The path of training and dedication is often littered with blood, sweat, and tears, not to mention the financial burdens of racing, but the elation of taking the checkered flag brands the mark of "Winner" indelibly into the psyche of a racer. It's a feeling of triumph they can call upon when life's struggles tighten. It's a taste that whets their appetite for more, and it's a tangible experience of the internal strength it takes to overcome all the obstacles.
The top step of the podium is far more than the first-place trophy, or the champagne, or the embraces from loved ones, or the thrill of victory.

It's the etching of Conqueror into the soul.

All photos are © Gavin Baker/ Road to Indy