August Employee Spotlight

Shadi Ghafari

CASHIER SUPERVISOR – THOUSAND OAKS

Shadi is an exemplary employee for a number of reasons. From his innate positivity to providing elite customer service, Shadi is an example for other K1 employees to follow. “Not only is he an extremely positive member of staff, but I have truly never seen him without a smile on his face,” said Thousand Oaks Manager Cameron Pitts. 

Currently studying psychology at Cal State Northridge, Shadi hopes to go into therapy or counseling for young adults and teens, eventually opening his own practice. When asked about his hero, Shadi gave credit to his mom and her unwavering great attitude, crediting her as the reason for his own positive mindset. “She always told me to look at the big picture and not focus on the little things that might only impact a couple of minutes of the day,” Shadi said. 

Shadi spends his free time fixing up a World War II-era Jeep that used to be his dad’s project. We are thrilled to recognize Shadi in the Employee Spotlight and are thankful for his ability to connect with customers and coworkers alike.

Marlene Nunez-Solis

SHIFT SUPERVISOR – ANAHEIM

Marlene has climbed the promotional ladder at K1 Speed Anaheim, advancing from cashier supervisor to Paddock supervisor, and now shift supervisor. “Marlene was my very first promotion as a manager of K1 Anaheim,” said Anaheim General Manager Matt Reagan.  “She is very detail-oriented and attentive to customer needs.” In the future, Marlene wants to continue her climb up the promotional ladder to experience more aspects of the company. 

In her free time, Marlene enjoys baking and oftentimes brings in treats for coworkers. When asked who inspires/motivates her, Marlene was quick to answer, “My mom is my hero… it’s amazing to see how she’s able to keep up and still wants to work.” We are thrilled to recognize Marlene’s work ethic and her ability to connect with customers.

Lisa Lunsford

FOOD & BEV SUPERVISOR – K1 CIRCUIT WINCHESTER

Lisa is in charge of running the company’s first sit-down style Paddock Lounge at K1 Circuit Winchester. Lisa brings a multitude of experience in kitchen management, and “her future with this company is promising,” says K1 Circuit General Manager Alberto Maurera. “She always puts the mom’s touch (love) to each of our dishes.”

Originally from San Diego, Lisa was introduced to motorsports during her childhood and recalls often watching a family member compete at Barona Speedway: San Diego’s only semi-banked, quarter-mile clay oval track. When asked what she appreciates about the job, Lisa mentioned looking forward to being with her coworkers and the camaraderie shared between staff members. In her free time, Lisa enjoys reading, going to church, and spending time with her grandson and three nieces.

Marenda Le

SHIFT SUPERVISOR – ADDISON

A Chicago native, Marenda first got into racing through her grandfather — a “true car fanatic,” as she described. “He was always buying, trading, or building cars… my grandma would go crazy because every six months, there would be a new one in the driveway.” In her teenage years, Marenda and her family often attended car shows. Eventually, she started going to shows with friends, which opened up a new perspective on racing.

Marenda’s familiarity with car shows has also recently benefited the Addison center: “She took the lead in hosting the introduction meeting with a car show organizer,” said Addison General Manager Thomas Krempasky. The event resulted in Addison’s third-busiest Sunday of the year. With three more car shows planned before the end of the year, Marenda’s motivation to succeed continues to pay dividends for the Addison center. 

Sergio Morales

PADDOCK LOUNGE COOK – MIAMI

When we think of versatile employees able to help centers in multiple roles, Sergio quickly comes to mind. Sergio is “a team member that can jump into any scenario and do the job,” said Miami General Manager Charlie Fernandez. Sergio originally became a fan of racing through video game titles such as “Need for Speed.” He took his love of motorsports into his job at K1 Speed and has been with the company for almost four years.

Originally a track operator, Sergio now spends the majority of his shifts working in the kitchen, helping ensure parties are served in a timely fashion and managing large orders for center buyouts. Besides being dependable and professional in the Paddock Lounge kitchen, Sergio also received praise for his ability to fill different roles and “jump in to support his team without being asked,” said Regional Manager Marko Petronijevic.