Exotic performance cars race in Daytona's 'Roar before the Rolex 24'
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. - They have a need for speed! Super cars took to the track at the Daytona International Speedway on Saturday morning in preparation for racing in the Rolex 24 next weekend.
Known as the "Roar Before the 24," these cars were getting ready to race in the Rolex 24 next weekend. The event is a punishing, 24-hour race at the speedway.
What is the Rolex 24?
What they're saying:
"This is like the final dress rehearsal for next weekend's 63rd running of the Rolex 24," said Frank Kelleher, Daytona International Speedway president.
This year, there are 61 teams taking part in the Rolex 24 and more than 200 drivers.
Among the drivers was Chris Mies, who races for Ford Performance. This year, he was behind the wheel of a V-8 Mustang.
"I think the most noticeable difference is the sound," he said. "We have a big V8 inside. I think fans love it. It's just a great-looking car."
Mies said it takes a lot of endurance and teamwork to race for 24 hours.
"Basically, you don't start the week before the race," he said. "You prep the whole season, the whole year, only for this race."
Thousands of Boy and Girl Scouts also camped out in the infield for the event.
"We've gone up and down the garages and seen the cars," said Scoutmaster Kenny DiFiore, from Pack 978.
Kelleher said the race kicked track operations into high gear.
"It is one of the most prestigious and stories endurance races globally, next to the Le Mans 24," he said. "This is the endurance race that, if you're a manufacturer or athlete, this is the one you want to compete in."
Attend the Rolex 24
The Rolex 24 race kicks off next Saturday afternoon.
For ticket options, click here.
The Source: This story was written based on information shared by the Daytona International Speedway.
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