Charles Mendez & David Cowart

David Cowart and Charles Mendez began as racers — competitors chasing results at Daytona, Sebring, and across IMSA. But in the late 1970s, when Sebring International Raceway faced uncertainty, fading support, and the very real possibility of shutting down, they became something else entirely.

They became its guardians.

With no experience as promoters, no roadmap, and no guarantee of success, David and Charles took on the responsibility of saving Sebring — rebuilding trust, restoring its FIA listing, repairing the facility, and convincing an entire community that the 12 Hours still mattered.

And because of their work, Sebring didn’t just survive.

It came roaring back.