Name: Dave Mendy
Volunteer Position(s): Docent, Car Detail/Maintenance
Started volunteering in: October 2015
Q: When and how did you become a motorsports enthusiast?
I was bitten by the motorsports bug at age 12. My father surprised me with my first Go Kart. I watched NASCAR, Indy races, and just about any motorsports event from then on faithfully up thru the present.
Q: What kind of influence has that had on your life?
It was encouraged me to attend motorsports museums and events. I have enjoyed visiting world class museums: the Gilmore Museum in Hickory Corners, MI, Chrysler Museum in Auburn Hills, MI, Pierce Arrow Museum in Buffalo, NY, Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY, and close to home the Lemay Museum in Tacoma, WA, National Automobile Museum in Reno, NV, and our own World of Speed Motorsports Museum as a volunteer. I have also attended Woodward Dream Cruise in Detroit, MI, a NASCAR race in Charlotte, NC, and Hot August Nights in Reno, NV, to name a few. All so unique and interesting.
Q: What makes volunteering at World of Speed meaningful to you?
I enjoy talking with the guests from around the world who have similar motorsports interests.
Q: What is the most memorable experience of your time volunteering?
Just after starting volunteering 4 years ago, I was fortunate to meet and talk with Claire Sanders, driver of one of the museum’s Jungle Jim funny cars and hear his experiences.
Q: What do you wish other people knew about World of Speed?
WOS is more than car exhibits. There is the collaboration with area high schools and the museum offering educational programs and promoting career opportunities in the automotive industry.
Q: If you could choose any vehicle to be displayed in the museum, what would it be?
I am a Camaro enthusiast so would like to see a Camaro exhibit similar to the Mustang feature.
Q: What is your dream car?
A new mid-engine Corvette. I saw a test model this past fall in Bowling Green, KY and was impressed with this American icon.