Amongst all the general thank-you's and mutual words of appreciation for all the hospitality shown in and around Sebring - and it's all truly deserved by the way -it's unusual for me to single out individuals. However, today I'm making an exception. I happen to think it's entirely appropriate, on behalf of the UK contingent, to express our sincere thanks to Matt Harper and his family.
Nothing has been too much trouble for Matt, from trips to and from the airport, nights out, food, beer and all manner hospitality has been so generously given without apparent limit. So many of us from this side of the pond owe Matt, Trish, Seth, Nicky, and yes even the four-legged terrors, such a big vote of thanks for their many kindnesses. Matt threw open his house to me last thursday, drove me around, fed and watered me, cracked gags, apparently we set a fish on fire though i don't remember that bit, and he even allowed me to use his own personal lavatory. Apart from the farting in the car, he was generally as good a pal as any man could ever hope for. I can never thank him enough, and I'm sure you'll all join me in saying thanks, we owe you one.
I know Matt, bluff Yorkshireman that he is, will be extremely embarrassed reading these words (and to be honest that's a large part of the pleasure in writing them) but you are, Sir, a prince amongst men.
Cheers Matt, see you in June
