04.05.08 - The Sun Herald - Racing Team Visits Vets

Members of the Miss GEICO team are standing, Andrew McKevitt, Cheif Savering, Marc Granet, Scotty Begovich, Gary Goodell and Greg Coons. Front kneeling, Rhonda Lundstedt, team owner John Haggin and Tabitha Orr.


Patients and staff at the Biloxi VA got a chance for a close look at one of Smokin' the Sound's supercharged powerboats Friday, when Miss Geico Racing team owner John Haggin and his crew wheeled in their 40-foot 'Platinum Rage' for a visit.

'We do this kind of thing in every city we go to,' said Haggin. 'We love to visit the veterans - they're heroes. It's real important that they aren't forgotten. Plus the whole concept is bringing the fan base back. It's a family-oriented experience.'

Miss Geico Girls Rhonda Lundstedt and Tabitha Orr handed out team caps and souvenir items while Haggin, driver Marc Granet and throttleman Scotty Begovich answered questions about horsepower, top speed, and the potential perils of the Biloxi course.

'This might be the most dangerous course we do, with that seawall, and those boats are coming at you in the other direction,' Haggin said. 'We'll be doing 180 or 185 (mph) against Bud Light. It'll be something.'

Races take place this weekend.