Patrick Newton

Hometown: Issaquah, WA

Age: 35

Family: Married - One child, Jack, 3

Credit Card balance: You'd have to use scientific notation ;-)

Occupation: Boeing Project Manager

Pat started doing track days in 1998 with his '97 Firebird Formula. He became addicted rather quickly, as most do, and started hanging out at Conference race weekends. Pat wanted to race right away, but the logistics (house, garage, income) didn't come together until 2002. By that time he had seen how much time, money and frustration his ponycar buddies were dumping into their race cars, and how much low-stress fun the Mazda racers were having. Pat decided on Spec Miata because he couldn't stand the thought of driving an old, carbureted, solid axle, rotary, POS Pro-7 car. ;-)

How long I've been racing: 27 weekends (as of end of 2006 season)

Favorite driver: I don't really have a favorite pro driver. My favorite amateur driver is Ken Sutherland- fast, humble (generally ;-) ) and always more than willing to help other SM drivers and their families with anything they need. We really dig his better half Carrie and little Emma as well!

What I like best about racing miatas: I love the camaraderie, the comparatively low cost, the close racing and the decided lack of egos. You can't get too hung up on yourself when you're driving little girly cars. Most people who come into NWR/OR SM with an attitude end up getting schooled and leaving as quickly as they came.

What other miata driver I most want to beat: I love beating Boemler, although I prefer to do it when his car is 100% so I know I got him fair and square. :-)

Crew: My crew is my family- Newton Family Racing. My dad Dennis, wife Nicole and son Jack

Sponsor: My family sponsors me, as needed. Supporting a family and a racing program on a single income is tough. Dad's been a great help to get me through this summer's races.