Gary Scelzi was walking through the Pomona on Saturday pits in his street clothes. There was no firesuit, no scooter rushing to the next meeting. He was just a normal person visiting his old stomping grounds.

“I get to enjoy the fans and be relaxed,” Scelzi admitted while making a pit stop at the track. “I don’t think I’ve ever been this relaxed at a race track which is probably a good thing.”

Scelzi conveniently planned a business meeting on Friday in nearby Azusa and made a visit to the track on Saturday morning. He planned to leave before the first round of qualifying. Gary Scelzi was walking through the Pomona on Saturday pits in his street clothes. There was no firesuit, no scooter rushing to the next meeting. He was just a normal person visiting his old stomping grounds.

“I get to enjoy the fans and be relaxed,” Scelzi admitted while making a pit stop at the track. “I don’t think I’ve ever been this relaxed at a race track which is probably a good thing.”

Scelzi conveniently planned a business meeting on Friday in nearby Azusa and made a visit to the track on Saturday morning. He planned to leave before the first round of qualifying.

“That’s what I have to,” Scelzi admitted. “Evidently I made the right decision because I donn’t feel bad right now. Of course, I haven’t watched a car go down the track yet and I don’t plan to either. I guess it’s a bit of therapy and I figure my experience is nothing more than taking in a teaspoonful. If I can get the hell out of here and feel good about it, then I will be fine.”

Scelzi isn't currently in a ride this year, but hasn't slammed the door closed on his driving career.

“I plan on coming back but it’s going to have to be the right deal,” Scelzi admitted. “The right people, the right amount of money and if it comes through next season, I’ll be back. If not, maybe the next year. If you don’t see me in the next two years, then I’m not coming back.”

There is the standing invitation from Jim Head and while Scelzi would love to drive for his longtime friend, the demands of converting the car to his stature will be more trouble than it’s worth. Add in the fact Head is seeking a driver who will bring along sponsorship money and that’s why Scelzi is fine with waiting.

“We’ve talked about it and I just don’t want to come drive for one race,” Scelzi said. “I could drive the car any time I want, but I think right now I just need to sit out a year. This time off is going to do me right, give me time to get my head right and focus on the business. Besides, the kids love having me at home.”