published: Friday, February 15, 2013

F Troop to hold traditional pre race parties

By BARRY FOSTER

Special to the News-Sun

SEBRING - Many fans have announced their preparations are under way for the 61st running of the Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring. In fact, the line started earlier this month when the first campers, Brian and Cheryl Bailey, set up their motor home in front of the headquarters at Sebring International Raceway.

Green Park regulars F-Troop are starting ther party early as well - with the 42nd annivesary of the "Fun in the Sun & Party Tonight" tour. Events leading up to the race will include an East Coast pre-race party in North Palm Beach at the Crazy Horse Saloon. That one is slated for 8 p.m. Saturday.

A similar gathering is planned for the West Coast on Feb 23 in Bradenton.

But anybody who thinks the Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring is over when the checkered flag drops for this cadre is sadly mistaken. After attending this year's grand prix of endurance, the group will gather for their traditional celebratory "We Survived" party. That one will be held March 30 - also at the Crazy Horse Saloon in North Palm Beach.

All of the parties will feature music by traditional F-Troop bands including Section 8, Under Construction A2Z and the always popular F-Troop All Stars.

"They can keep up with all of our events simply by joining our 'F Troup' page on Facebook," said F-Troop spokesman Terry Harms.

The group has been attending the 12 Hours of Sebring for 40 years.