Race fan first, security second

It's almost fitting that Bill Atterbury comes from Safety Harbor.

For the past 17 years, he's made the yearly trek to Highlands County for the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring. The last 15 years, he's doubled as both fan and security personnel.

Atterbury fell into the gig after his best friend's sister married a man from Sebring.

His job each Race Week is to work a five-hour shift for the Highlands County Rotary's pit suites. The duties are straightforward - sit at the bottom of the stairwell and make sure no unauthorized people get into the suites or media tower.

Atterbury's shift is always 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, with a crew of 11.

"You get to see the same people every year," Atterbury said.

He doesn't get paid in cash, but instead receives a free four-day Super Ticket. That works out perfectly for Atterbury, who arrived in Sebring around 11 p.m. on Friday, March 12 and was busy getting his campsite up and running Wednesday morning.

Atterbury has always made a week out of the races, as it gives him a chance to get together with friends and have a good time.

Over the years, his side gig at the races has afforded him the chance to meet some "really cool people," such as actor and car enthusiast Paul Newman and racer Mario Andretti.

"If you look hard enough, you can see anybody," Atterbury said. "Over the years, it's been a who's who of racing."

Whether it's being with friends, spotting celebrities or keeping order at the suites, Atterbury always has a good time at the 12 Hours.

His little side job is an added bonus.

"Getting to work it is a privilege," he said.