Gunnar and Marina first crossed paths at the Tri-Cities Water Follies in 2018. With a little help from a few mutual friends, and a well-timed appearance by the O’Farrels’ new puppy, Ruger, Marina found the perfect excuse to introduce herself. That weekend brought spontaneous adventures, including Marina braiding Gunnar’s hair and the two of them sharing golf cart rides under the summer sky. It was during one of those rides, when Gunnar put his arm around Marina, that she felt the first spark. The following weekend at Seafair, it became clear something special was unfolding, if Marina or Gunnar ever went missing, chances were you’d find them in each other’s pit area. As Marina headed back to school, she and Gunnar kept in touch long-distance, their connection growing stronger with each conversation. After the San Diego race, and with a little encouragement from Marissa, Gunnar officially asked Marina to be his girlfriend. In 2022 Gunnar bought a house and asked Marina to move in, marking the beginning of countless adventures together. From hosting lively gatherings with friends to tackling endless house and yard projects, their shared life began to truly take shape. The adventures at home, and in life, continued to grow, especially with the addition of their dog, Nitro. Six years after their first trip together, Gunnar and Marina returned to San Diego, this time for an unforgettable reason. It was there that Gunnar asked Marina to marry him, bringing their story full circle.