With the qualifying race around the corner, the intensive training camp selected three names for three slots—Noelle, Alexis, and Derrick.
No one raised objections. Those three were undeniably the strongest in the intensive training camp, after all.
Those not participating in the qualifiers would undergo another assessment. The top scorers would be chosen for an upcoming carnival.
The training camp had partnerships with many automotive companies. Well-known brands often hosted fan carnival events and invited racers for demonstration races.
Demonstration races weren't competitive. Selected racers would enjoy all-expenses-paid trips and receive performance fees ranging from the hundreds to the thousands of dollars.
For the racers, it was a win-win event that came with fun, easy money, and the chance to mingle with gorgeous car models. It was the perfect gig.
This time, the intensive training camp selected Nicola from Flame Speed Racing, Zachary from Swift Racing, and a racer from another racing team.
Nicola was elated. In the past, such opportunities never came her way. She'd always ranked near the bottom, and just staying in the intensive training camp was an achievement. But now, she was excited that she could finally step outside the camp's walls and be part of something bigger.
The day before her departure, she sought out Noelle. "I'm leaving for the carnival tomorrow, Ms. Quinn. Thank you for everything. I never would've improved this much without your help."
Gratefully, she held out a handmade gift to Noelle. It was an adorable braided hair tie of red and black, finished with two dangling cherries.
"I made this myself. I'll probably be back just in time for your qualifying race, but for now, I hope you'll win and make it to the International Grand Prix!"
Noelle accepted it with a smile. "Thank you." She wouldn't have taken it if it were an expensive store-bought gift, but she would accept something handmade.
Nicola shook her head and seriously said, "No. I'm the one who should thank you, Noelle. Before training with you, I never thought I could have so much room for improvement, and no one believed in me like you have.
"I'll keep training hard to be like you one day, racing in the qualifying race and the International Grand Prix."
Noelle found her enthusiasm endearing. "In that case, I'll be waiting for you at the International Grand Prix."
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