Racing star Memo Gidley announced today that he will be back driving go-karts next Sunday, February 12th, at Sim Raceway Kart track at Sonoma Raceway. Memo is planning to make his first laps since his horrific accident during the 2014 24 Hours of Daytona race.
“I have been waiting for what seems like an eternity to get that OK from my doctors, and most recent back surgeon that I was healed and could go back to doing the things I want to do!” said Memo. “And one big inspiration in my recovery was the day that I could announce me being back driving to my family, friends, and supporters who have helped me heal and get to this point.”
It has been three years since the accident Gidley suffered while racing the 2014 pole-winning GAINSCO/Bob Stallings Chevrolet Corvette at Daytona. The perennial fan favorite broke and fractured a dozen bones as well as his back, and Gidley also suffered a serious concussion. In the three years since the accident, Memo has gone through eight surgeries along with numerous physical therapy treatments and healing techniques, and he has worked with dozens of doctors and specialists all trying to help his recovery. Throughout, Memo suffered severe nerve pain from scar tissue from his damaged vertebrae that tested his desire to live, let alone overcome.
“The path to where I am today was extreme but I was so determined to get better that I pushed hard,” said Memo. “I honestly don’t know how a person would survive it without the kind of support from family, friends, and people trying to help like I was fortunate to have. I can’t measure how much I appreciate them or thank people enough.”
The “Memo Back Driving Day” is an open invitation to anybody who is interested in coming out and being part of Memo taking his Team RattleSnake Racing/Cameron/Aluminos 125cc shifter kart around the Sim Raceway track for a day of fun and appreciation. The GIDLEY NATION race van will also be there hosting a BBQ and refreshments for all of his guests. “My desire to take laps is unreal,” said Gidley, “and I can’t think of a better way to do it than with my family and friends!”