Sebastian Steals the Show

By Rick Sassone on March 19, 2014

Sebastian Wheldon stole the show (Travis Failey / RSEN)

Palmetto, Fla. — It was another great day at the 4th Annual Media Kart Day at Andersen Race Park in Palmetto. I have attended and raced in all four, but today was extra special. 5 year-old Sebastian Wheldon, son of Dan Wheldon, was the Grand Marshall all suited up to lead the professional drivers at the start of the race with an honorary pace lap. It all made sense, bringing us all back to the importance in life, family and children.

Susie Wheldon with the star of the day, Sebastian, but it was also little brother Oliver’s birthday. The whole crowd sang happy birthday earlier to a shy Oliver. (photo Wendy Eckhardt / RSEN)

No one will ever forgot that tragic day in October 2011 when the sport lost one of the greatest, Dan Wheldon. Not just a great driver, a great human being who was loved by many. But to have witnessed today, the legacy, Sebastian Wheldon leading this event brought us to a happy time. When Sebastian was introduced nothing else seemed to matter, almost making me think you know, if I miss the Grand Prix this year it would be ok, but I’m sure glad I did not miss today.

Dan Andersen holds the guest of honor on his shoulders during the pre-race ceremonies as Susie Wheldon looks on (Travis Failey / RSEN)

The professional drivers did not pass up on this photo opportunity with Sebastian just before the pace lap (Travis Failey / RSEN)

Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg president Tim Ramsberger gets the special day going (Travis Failey / RSEN)

Nobody does it better than Mom! Susie Wheldon prepares Sebastian for the history making pace lap (photo Wendy Eckhardt / RSEN)

Above, Marco Andretti addresses the media with the excitement of the start of a new season, but below he looks much more excited to get a photo with Sebastian (photo Travis Failey / RSEN)