June’s race weekend was another success for racing and the action was as hot as the temperature. The drivers took full advantage of the adjusted schedule and displayed great qualifying times for both days. Once again, Gerhard Watzinger was running strong and determined to make the podium in the Unlimited division. Pushing hard behind Watzinger on Saturday were John Morris and Ken Melgoza. A spin by John at the bus stop within the final few laps slowed down Melgoza and gave Watzinger the breathing room he needed to take the checkered flag. Sunday was yet another battle for the lead between Watzinger and Melgoza. Melgoza was able to jump to the lead early on and once again, a spin out was what made the difference for the leader. This time, it was Watzinger spinning in Ego Check on the final lap giving Melgoza the checkered flag. Don’t underestimate newcomer Jim Booth, who showed some very smooth and patent driving, finishing 3rd on Saturday and 2nd on Sunday. The SR3’s made sure they didn’t disappoint fans by lots of neck and neck competition. Although an early tap from behind put Tony Bullock at the back of the pack, he continued to push hard and made his way back through the field on Saturday. Towards the end of the race Tony Bullock, Ron Eckhardt and Bruce Jones went 3 wide going into the drop, which made for great racing for fans. Ron Fletcher had a great showing, which led him to victory lane on Saturday. On Sunday, Tony bounced back to take the checkered flag by holding off John Falb, who was just waiting for the right moment that, unfortunately, never came. Further back in the field, George Kurtz and Ron Fletcher were having a great duel for 3rd place. Kurtz getting a great run on Fletcher out of turn 2, going side by side into Ego Check, with Kurtz holding the inside line, and Fletcher on the outside. Fletcher tried to fight back, but ran out of room and had a spin on the track. This took him out of the podium position and guaranteed Kurtz 3rd place. The Rookie drivers added to that excitement with Todd Slusher and Todd Snyder taking the checker flags respectfully. Saturday, Slusher passed Snyder on the first lap at exit 28 taking the lead and never letting it go. A spin by Snyder gave Slusher the breathing room he needed to finish out the race. Once again on Sunday these two battled it out, but Snyder would not give up the first position. Slusher had a run and tried to pass Snyder on the outside of Kenny’s Corner, but couldn’t make it. With Slusher losing momentum, Snyder was able to claim the victory. Sean Vanian and Alain Derzie both ran great times this weekend and will be looking to see some time on the podium when we all meet back here in September. We’d like to give a big welcome to our newest racer, Monica Carlson, driving the Britemax Radical SR3! After the break for the summer, we hope to see many more new and returning faces. Stay tuned for more information on the Miata Races.
Posted on: Thu, 13 Jun 2013 22:08:55 +0000
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