So Long 2020

So long 2020-

While we maintained a significant archive of photos to post on our social media accounts in 2020, we rarely had material to post on our main site for obvious reasons.  The past year was difficult, and at times disappointing, as we had to alter our lives and distance ourselves from friends and often family members. Yet, perspective is important and reminds us that we made small sacrifices compared to the pain, trauma and sadness felt by families that lost loved ones, or for those families that have had to remain apart.  This past year limited our ability to cover the events that we normally would have attended and we witnessed things happen that we would never have imagined such as the canceling of Monterey Car Week and all of the associated events including the Pebble Beach Concours.  

It’s been tough, but thankfully it was the automotive world that often brought some respite from these bleak times.  Various racing series (IndyCar, IMSA and Formula 1) found a way to race without fans in attendance.  These events provided much needed two hour distractions from reality and also illustrated that with appropriate safety protocols in place that drivers and teams could keep themselves safe.  This was also the year to binge watch.... binge watch everything!  Exploring the content of the popular streaming services revealed documentaries, movies and other content to keep us busy for hours.  Yes, one of us is almost finished with a third viewing of the entire Grand Tour series on Prime.

We could complain, but that seems out of place in times like these.  With the hurt felt by so many as at the time of this writing 343,000 of our fellow Americans have succumbed to Covid-19, what we do via The Loud Pedal is of little importance compared to the tragedy faced by so many.    That is why we are ultimately most thankful for our families and friends who have stayed safe during these times.

We also want to thank our readers, followers, supporters and the network of awesome automotive people out there who keep the passion alive day after day.  We hope to see you all at some point in the year and share a big group (air) hug!

To better things in 2021, and beyond.

Mark & Andrew