It's fly by the seat of the pants, No8 wire stuff, and Minnell wouldn't have it any other way.
"It generally doesn't matter because I'm in it for the long haul.
"You get home [tonight], then the head hits the pillow and you're straight up at 5am.
"Even the crew said, 'what are we doing building the engine on Christmas Eve?' I said, 'she'll be right'. Some people get all worked up, I'm the opposite. I actually relax when I'm strapped into the cockpit."
While he may be cool behind the steering wheel, Minnell knows the pressure is on as they chase a third straight national title, not to mention the lofty expectations after clean-sweeping every round in 2011/12.
Where can you go after such success? Only down it would be like scaling Everest twice.
In a much tighter and competitive field Minnell must face down fellow Wanganui driver Pat Dillon, who has been flying during his preparations. Fifth-ranked in the world, Steve Bron is another who wants, and deserves, strong consideration.
Minnell estimates about seven drivers fancy their chances of taking down the champs.
"I've been sledged and texted, and maybe a few are trying to get the mental push on me.
"Everyone wants to knock us of the perch it's healthy."
Shelter View will host the opening round tomorrow and the finale of the series on the evening of April 13.
