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Eric Holmes Grabs Pole at Infineon

 

Escalon driver shows he's in for the long haul

SCOTT LINESBURGH
Record Staff Writer
Published Tuesday, Aug 22, 2006

The weekend got off to a rocky start for Eric Holmes, but he managed to earn the victory he needed in his quest to win two NASCAR touring series in the same season.

Holmes' hauler broke down on his way to Erie, Colo., but he rented a truck, arrived on time and won the NASCAR Southwest Series race at Colorado National Speedway.

It was Holmes' second Southwest Series win of the season. He is second in the series' points standings and is second in the NASCAR Grand National West championship battle. But his Southwest Series season almost came to an end in Nevada. His hauler suffered mechanical problems, and Holmes had it towed about 170 miles to Salt Lake City.

 


"I have no idea what town we were near in Nevada when it happened, but I thought we were in big trouble," the 30-year-old Escalon resident said. "We managed to get to Salt Lake and rented another truck. We ended up being fine."

Holmes won $5,350 in Erie against a talented field that included drivers from the Southwest and Midwest series. But more importantly, he cut the points lead of San Fernando driver Rip Michels to 11 points. Michels finished fourth.

The final points race of the season is Sept. 23 at Altamont Motorsports Park. The Grand National circuit finishes up at Altamont on Oct. 15.

Said Holmes: "It was a great win for us simply because we really needed it."

 

Vidovich Returns to Stockton In Hopes of Repeat Win
By Debbie Clark, Image On Trak
July 14, 2005


LAKESIDE, Calif. — Stockton 99 Speedway powers up the track lights this Saturday night for the second of two NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series races held at the old 1/4-mile historic Stockton, California speedway.

Series regular and 2003 NASCAR Elite Division, Southwest Series Champion Auggie Vidovich II will be looking to finish just as well as his last appearance on the fast oval which would give him win number three this year and a consecutive win at Stockton.

The twenty-four-year-old from Lakeside, California drove into Stockton’s winners circle April 30 -- leading all 100 laps with a second straight victory after the win at Mesa Marin (Bakersfield, Calif.) April 9. After Vidovich’s winning month in April, Vidovich followed up with a second place at Mesa Marin May 14. Vidovich still leads the series with the most laps lead at 250.

Vidovich, however, did not finish as well at his last race at Infineon Raceway with the day ending early due to a mechanical failure on June 25 after qualifying tenth. Vidovich was up to fifth by lap seven, behind Boris Said quoting that the car felt good. Lap 14 posted Vidovich in third after Said and the No. 70 spun in front of Vidovich in turn 11. A pit stop was called by Mike Harvick for lap 17 with four tires and a splash of gas. Vidovich headed back out for turn one and then radioed he had no oil pressure and the No. 11 Centrifugal Technologies, Ultra Custom Boats, Ransom Brothers True Value Lumber Chevrolet was done for the day

Although Vidovich has dropped down to third in the point standings (96 points out of first and 54 points from second), he has never been lower than third since the second race of the season. Knowing that he must finish in the top ten to qualify and be invited to this year’s NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown, Vidovich has been strong and impressive the first half of the season and doesn’t plan on changing his strategy for the remainder of the races this year. “I give a lot of credit to Mike Harvick, my car owner Rich Fountain, and the entire crew for their commitment in keeping our team in contention for a repeat championship,” said Vidovich.

The past Stockton 99 win brought Vidovich’s Southwest Series win tally up to eight career victories in the popular series. Vidovich’s win list includes Tucson Raceway Park (AZ), Sandia Motorsport Park (NM), two wins at Colorado National (CO), three wins at Mesa Marin (CA) and the recent win at Stockton 99 Speedway (CA).

For more information on and 2003 NASCAR Elite Division, Southwest Series Champion Auggie Vidovich II - click on www.vidovichracing.com.

Southwest Series Returns to Historic Stockton 99 Speedway
By Derrick Shannon
July 12, 2005

Southwest Series points leader Jim Pettit II (Motorshooters photo)
 

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (July 12, 2005) – For the second time this season, the historic quarter-mile Stockton 99 Speedway in Stockton, Calif. will host the NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series Saturday, July 16. Stockton is celebrating 60 years of motorsports entertainment in California’s central valley and has hosted 23 Southwest Series races since the series was founded in 1986. Ron Hornaday Jr. tops the record books with three victories on the tricky quarter-mile oval, while Craig Raudman, Rick Carelli, Troy Beebe, Dan Press, and Ken Boyd have all claimed two wins apiece in Southwest Series competition. Stockton has always been stingy with victories and since the track returned to the series schedule in 2002 as there have been no repeat winners.

Burney Lamar, from nearby West Sacramento, Calif., is a local favorite at Stockton 99 Speedway, a track where he cut his stock car racing teeth. Lamar sits second in the standings after a sixth place performance at Infineon Raceway June 25. While Lamar has never won at Stockton 99 Speedway in Southwest Series competition, he has scored top three top three finishes over the past couple of seasons and is looking to continue his momentum this Saturday night July 16. A victory at Stockton is high on Lamar’s priority list.

"Stockton is pretty much where it all began for me and I really like running there. Even though I've not won, we've had good finishes. Maybe this time, I'll get that first 99 win", Lamar said. "We are at the point of the season that we need solid runs if we are going to catch Jim (Pettit). He (Pettit) is a smart racer and he does not give up points easily, so we have to bring our “A” game and hope he has a little bad luck.”

Stockton may owe Lamar a little good luck of his own this time around. Back in April he had a car capable of winning and had made his way underneath leader Auggie Vidovich only to suffer a mechanical failure ending his night early. “I really want to win at Stockton this weekend,” Lamar said. “Last time here we felt we had the car to beat so we are really excited about our chances.”

For Jim Pettit II, the defending Southwest Series champion, Stockton is considered his home track. The Prunedale, Calif. native scored his first Southwest Series victory and first Bud Pole Award there. "I have had a lot of success at Stockton over the years," Pettit said. "It is a special place to race and I have always had a lot of fans there. It is going to be hot all day while we practice, but when the sun goes down the track is going to change quite a bit. I hope my experience here is the difference. We also need to qualify well because track position will often dictate the outcome."

Pettit leads the standings over Lamar by 42 points heading into the 125-lap event at Stockton 99 Speedway and knows that margin could quickly evaporate if you are not careful. “Things happen quickly here,” Pettit said. “We have a lot a great driver’s in this series but you also know who you have give a lot a room to. With four races in a row this race is very important. If we can come out of Stockton with a top five finish then we can breathe a lot easier heading to Pikes Peak next week.”

While track position can be a factor, it does not mean you relegated to a poor finish. Back in 2002, local Stockton ace Ron Strmiska Jr. qualified for the race by finishing second in the 20-lap non-qualifiers race and started the 125-lap feature 22nd. Strmiska took his time to work through the field and on lap 124 took the lead from eventual runner-up Lamar and claimed his only Southwest Series victory.

While Lamar and Pettit are familiar faces to the Stockton 99 faithful, Lakeside, Calif. driver Auggie Vidovich has had the car to beat several times this season scoring back to back win in April. Vidovich, the 2003 Southwest Series champion, is currently third in the point standings 96-points behind leader Pettit. In seven starts this season Vidovich has two wins and four top five finishes.

Vidovich claimed a dominating victory back in April leading all 100 laps of the race. "Stockton is a tough track to race," Vidovich said. "It will bite you when you least expect it. There is not a lot of room for mistakes, so qualifying well and getting out front is important. We had a great car last time here and we are bringing the same setup and hoping for the same result this weekend."

The AutoZone “125” presented by Havoline is race number eight of the 14-race championship series and the start of a four race stretch on consecutive weekends. Success this weekend at Stockton could well determine this year’s series champion.

Southwest Series Notes:

* Jim Pettit II will partner with Racing for the Missing, a division of the Nation’s Missing Children Organization (NMCO) for the 2005 racing season. Pettit will feature a missing person on his car at each series event this season. At Stockton, Pettit will bring awareness about Tim Perryman. Mr. Perryman had an MBA and was a Boy Scout leader went missing on March 28, 2004. A dedicated father and career individual, he went for a drive after work one day, retuned home and has not been seen since. Mr. Perryman’s family will be in attendance Saturday night. for addition information you can log onto http://www.theyaremissed.org/ncma/gallery/ncmaprofile_all.php?A200401390S.

* Steve Johnson set the one lap Bud Pole qualifying record of 13.232 seconds/68.017 mph at Stockton 99 Speedway for the Southwest Series back on May 12, 1990. That mark still stands today. Troy Beebe won that race and Johnson finished a disappointing 19th. Johnson redeemed himself later in the season when the series returned in August by claiming the victory over fast qualifier M.K. Kanke.

* Alumni Spotlight: Kevin Harvick claimed the NASCAR Busch Series victory this past weekend at Chicagoland Speedway. Former Southwest Series Rookie-of-the-Year Brandon Whitt scored his first career NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series top ten finish with a sixth place performance at Kentucky Speedway. 1999 Southwest Series champion Kurt Busch finished 8th at Chicago to remain solidly in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series top 10.

* M.K. Kanke of Frazier Park, Calif. is second on the all-time Bud Pole Award list with 28 career fast times. His last Bud Pole Award came last season at Mesa Marin Raceway in Bakersfield, Calif. Kanke also sits second on the all-time win list with 19 career triumphs dating back to 1987. Kanke has 82 top five and 121 career top ten finishes to claim the series records in those categories.

* Bob Lyon of Aqua Dulce, Calif. has started 279 career Southwest series races dating back to 1987. Lyon will make career start 280 this weekend. Lyon has four career victories and 43 top five and 89 top ten finishes over the years. Lyons last victory came in 2000.

* Sunoco Rookie-of-the-Year Standings: Don Campbell holds a one point advantage over Dustin Jones in the Sunoco Rookie standings after seven races. The Sunoco Rookie-of-the-Year title will count the best eight finishes of the season for each rookie and will also take into account on and off track performance to determine the ROTY.

* Lunati to honor top crew chief: Lunati, a subsidiary of Kentucky-based Holley Performance Products, will award a gift certificate valued at $50 off a purchase of $250 or more, or a $100 off a purchase of $500 or more, to the winning crew chief at each NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series race in 2005.

Fast Facts

What: AutoZone “125” presented by Havoline, NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series Race #8 of 14

Where: Stockton 99 Speedway, Stockton, Calif.

When: Saturday, July 16 at 9:00 p.m. (approx.).

Posted awards: $ 49,394

Race length: 125 laps, 31.25 miles

Track layout: Quarter-mile paved oval.

2004 Race Winner: Craig Raudman

2004 Race Bud Pole Winner: Burney Lamar

Pre-Race Schedule: Registration begins 10:00 a.m., Practice 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., Bud Pole qualifying 5:30 p.m., AutoZone “125” 9:00 p.m.

Top 10 Drivers: 1. Jim Pettit II 1092, 2. Burney Lamar 1050, 3. Auggie Vidovich 996, 4. M.K. Kanke 987, 5. Greg Voigt 936, 6. Eddy McKean 927, 7. Greg Pursley 905, 8. Thomas Martin 874, 9. Nick Lynch 851, 10. Rip Michels 841.

 

NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series Makes First Trip of Season to Irwindale Speedway

* Riehl Rolling into Irwindale

* Pettit Tops Point Standings

* Rookie Battle Heats up after CNS

* Lewis Searching for Southern Exposure 

* Voigt’s Victory Vision

*Alumni Spotlight: Crafton Tops Alumni List After Weekend



 DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (June 16, 2005) – Greg Voigt of Santa Barbara, Calif. knows that his first NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series victory is just around the corner and he hopes that victory comes Saturday night at Irwindale (Calif.) Speedway. Voigt, the 2000 Late Model champion at the marquee Southern California half-mile paved oval, has a lot of experience, but it will take a lot more than experience to visit victory lane.


”I love racing at Irwindale,” Voigt said. “It has taken our team a lot longer to be competitive in the Southwest Series than I could ever have imagined. We are now qualifying well and finishing consistently, so there would be no better place to get my first win.”


Though experience is a key element at any race track, luck always has a lot to do with how a race is won. “There are a lot of champions and exceptional drivers in this series and you have to have luck and I mean good luck in order to come out on top.”

For Jim Pettit II, the defending Southwest Series champion and current series’ point leader, Irwindale Speedway has been a mixed blessing for the Prunedale, Calif. driver. Scoring only two top five finishes at Irwindale in his last eight starts has not set well with Pettit, in spite of a runner up finish in the 2003 NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown. “Talk about luck or the lack there of,” Pettit said. “You just have to be right here. This tracks races like a super speedway and if you are the slightest bit off then you are at the back.”

While Voigt and Pettit look for luck at Irwindale, Brandon Riehl of Portland, Ore. hopes he can continue steam roller performance. Riehl has reeled off two wins, two Bud Poles, and a second place performance in his last three NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division starts. His parade started at a Northwest Series race in Yakima, Wash. where he claimed his first career victory. Then he traveled to Colorado National Speedway and picked up win number two. Last week in Twin Falls, Idaho he finished second after claiming the Bud Pole Award and starting the race from the eighth position.

 

“This has been a dream year,” Riehl said. “It has taken our team some time to adapt to coil over cars from running big springs Late Models, but it is finally coming together. I am having a bunch of fun and really looking forward to this weekend’s event.”

 

Having competed at Irwindale in last year’s NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown, this will be Riehl’s first trip during the regular season. “I was not planning on going to Irwindale as the budget is really tight,” Riehl said. “But my sponsor Aero Turbine wanted us there. We have had a good sting of luck and I hope we can continue the momentum.”

 

Another Northwest Series regular making the trip to Irwindale will be former series champion Gary Lewis of Bothell, Wash. Lewis wants to get more experience at Irwindale Speedway in preparation for the Showdown at the end of the season. “I really did not perform well here the last couple of years at the Showdown,” Lewis said. “I need more track time and I know it will payoff for the team. The track is as nice as I have ever seen and to run well against the Southwest guys is an important benchmark.”

Irwindale Speedway has hosted thirteen Southwest Series races since 1999 in which three drivers have claimed multiple wins. M.K. Kanke scored two wins both back in 2001 along with Burney Lamar who took the top spot two times (02’ & 04’), while David Gilliland tops the record books with three trips to victory lane in 2002 and 2003.

The Advantage Ford “100” is race number six of the 14-race championship series and the first of two visits the Southwest Series will make to Irwindale Speedway this season.

Southwest Series Notes:

* Joe Herold, a five year veteran of the Southwest Series was dealt a devastating blow two weeks ago when his transporter burnt to the ground carrying all his equipment and cars after a suspected axel malfunction. Herold was on his way to Colorado for round five of the series. The entire Southwest Series roster has offered up equipment and resources to compete the rest of the season. At this time Herold’s plans are unclear.


* Brandon Riehl is one of the hottest drivers in the country after scoring two wins and a second place finish in his last three races. He also claimed two Bud Pole Awards during that time. He currently leads the Northwest Series point standings and is tenth in the Southwest Series.

* Alumni Spotlight: Matt Crafton tops the Southwest Series Alumni list after he finished fifth at Texas this past weekend in NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series competition. Ron Hornaday finished sixth in the truck series event while Brandon Whitt finished 15th. Kevin Harvick finished 8th at Pocono last weekend in NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series action while reigning champion Kurt Busch finished 22nd. Hornaday also competed with the NASCAR Busch Series at Nashville finishing 14th.

 

*Frank Maronski Jr. holds the race record for a 100-lap event at Irwindale at 36 minutes and 26 seconds set back in 1999. Former series champion Bryan Germone holds the one lap qualifying record with a quick lap of 17.363 seconds/103.669 mph set in May of 1999.

* Sunoco Rookie-of-the-Year Standings: Don Campbell and Dustin Jones are the only two rookies to compete in all five events thus far this season. Campbell holds a slim lead in the Sunoco Rookie standings after five races. The Sunoco Rookie-of-the-Year will be crowned based on rookies’ best eight performances during the 2005 season.

* Lunati to honor top crew chief: Lunati, a subsidiary of Kentucky-based Holley Performance Products, will award a gift certificate valued at $50 off a purchase of $250 or more, or a $100 off a purchase of $500 or more, to the winning crew chief at each NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series race in 2005.

Fast Facts

What: NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series Race #6 of 14

Where: Irwindale Speedway, Irwindale, Calif.

When: Saturday, June 18 at 8:00 p.m. (approx.).

Posted awards: $ 49,394

Race length: 100 laps, 50 miles

Track layout: half-mile paved oval.

Pre-Race Schedule: Haulers Enter 9:00 a.m., Registration begins 10:00 a .m., Alternating Practice 1:00p.m - 3:00 p.m., Bud Pole qualifying 5:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m. Advantage Ford “100”.

Top 10 Drivers: 1. Jim Pettit II 794, 2. Burney Lamar 782, 3. Auggie Vidovich 778, 4. M.K. Kanke 730, 5. Greg Voigt 690, 6. Eddy McKean 677, 7. Jeff Jefferson 673, 8. Thomas Martin 650, 9. Greg Pursley 626, 10. Brandon Riehl 601.

Track Contact: Doug Stokes (626) 358-1100

 

 

NASCAR AUTOZONE ELITE DIVISION, MIDWEST SERIES AND SOUTHWEST SERIES STARS FACE OFF JUNE 4 AT COLORADO NATIONAL SPEEDWAY

* Auto Trader 150 Stages Best of the Best in Combination Event

*Points Leader Jim Pettit II Hopes to Repeat at CNS

*Jeff Jefferson Eyes Top Spot for Hometown Car Owner Finley

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (June 2, 2005) – The top drivers from NASCAR's AutoZone Elite Division Southwest and Midwest Series' will stage a prelude to this year's Toyota All Star Showdown. The Auto Trader "150" is a combination race where drivers will compete in a race within a race.

The highest-finishing Midwest Series driver will be credited with a Midwest Series victory and receive first-place points towards the Midwest Series championship, regardless of their overall finish in the event. The second highest-finishing Midwest Series driver will receive second-place points and so on. Likewise, the highest-finishing Southwest Series driver will be credited with a Southwest Series victory and receive first-place points towards the Southwest Series championship, and so on.

Drivers will be credited with championship points for their respective series, based on whichever series they have previously obtained a NASCAR license for. Drivers will not be credited with a start or championship points outside their “home” series for which they are licensed for.

The two series, which use identical race cars under identical rules as part of the NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, have both raced at Colorado National Speedway, located 25 miles north of Denver in Erie, Colo., on several previous occasions. Saturday’s Auto Trader marks the first time they are being brought together in a combined format. 

Qualifying will be at a premium as only thirty-two starting positions are available for the 150-lap event, where a full contingent of the each series regulars will vie for their shot at victory in this unique format. Several local NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series drivers will attempt to qualify, led by multi-time track champion Roger Avants.

Current Southwest Series point leader Jim Pettit II of Prunedale, Calif. took over the series point's lead after a dominating victory at Mesa Marin (Calif.) Raceway three weeks ago and eyes a return trip to the winner's circle at CNS after claiming the top spot last season.

"I love racing at Colorado National," Pettit said. "It is a long tow and hard on the teams, but the racing is always some of the best all year and the fans are incredible. I have always ran real well there and hope that I am there at the end this weekend. It is going to be a tough race to win as the best of the Midwest will make it one of the more competitive fields all season."

Two-time and defending Northwest Series champion Jeff Jefferson of Yakima, Wash. is hoping he can deliver the victory for local car owner Tony Finley. Finley owns Tri-County Parts and has supported racing efforts at CNS for several years before embarking on a full Southwest Series campaign with Jefferson this season.

"Tony has put a lot of effort into this team and he wants to win," Jefferson said. I could not think of a better place to put Tony in the winner's circle."

Another competitor from the Northwest is Brandon Riehl of Boring, Ore, who claimed his first career NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division victory last Saturday night in Yakima, Wash. Riehl is riding the momentum that comes with a first win. "It was special for me to win at Yakima last week," Riehl said. "I have had good cars all season but my finishes have not been there. I am looking forward to Colorado, but it is going to be tough with all the top guys there. This could be the toughest race of the season."

The Auto Trader "150" is the fifth race of the season for the Southwest Series and the second event for the Midwest Series. The two series' will meet up again at Pikes Peak Int'l Raceway in Fountain, Colo. for a second combination event in July.

AUTO TRADER 150 NEWS & NOTES

Ø      Alumni Spotlight... NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Stars Kevin Harvick finished 14th while Kurt Busch was 43rd in the Coca Cola 600 this past weekend at Lowes Motor Speedway. In NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series action Matt Crafton finished 9th with Ron Hornaday finishing 11th and Brandon Whitt finishing 23rd at Lowes Motor Speedway. All these drivers cut their stock car teeth in the Southwest Series.

Ø       Points … As a combination race with the Midwest and Southwest Series, the Auto Trader 150 will award full championship points for drivers in both series, based on the finishing order respective to other drivers from their series. All participating drivers will be credited with a start in their series.

Fast Facts

What: Auto Trader 150

Where: Colorado National Speedway, Erie, Colo.

Who: NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Midwest Series and Southwest Series

When: Sat., June 4 at 8:10 p.m. (Mountain Time).

Posted awards: $66,982.

Race length: 150 laps, 43.75 miles

Track layout: 3/8-mile oval.

Track contact: Doug Greer, (303) 828-0116.

Pre-Race Schedule (All Times Local): Registration begins 8 a.m., Practice 12-2 p.m., Bud Pole Qualifying 4:50 p.m.

Tickets: $18 for adults, $6.00 for youth (10-14), Under 10 free with paid adult.

Online Info: coloradospeedway.com or nascarregionalracing.com

 

NASCAR ANNOUNCES REVISION TO AUTO TRADER 150 CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS DISTRIBUTION

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (May 31, 2005) – In the Auto Trader 150, a special NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division combination race scheduled for June 4 at Colorado National Speedway, drivers in the two participating series (NASCAR’s Midwest Series and Southwest Series) will be awarded championship points based on their finishing order relative to other drivers in their “home” series.

A previous press release incorrectly stated that drivers will earn full championship points in both series. The highest-finishing Midwest Series driver will be credited with a Midwest Series victory and receive first-place points towards the Midwest Series championship, regardless of their overall finish in the event. The second highest-finishing Midwest Series driver will receive second-place points and so on. Likewise, the highest-finishing Southwest Series driver will be credited with a Southwest Series victory and receive first-place points towards the Southwest Series championship, and so on.

Drivers will be credited with championship points for their respective series, based on whichever series they have previously obtained a NASCAR license for. Drivers will not be credited with a start or championship points outside their “home” series for which they are licensed for.

        The two series, which use identical race cars under identical rules as part of the NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, have both raced at Colorado National Speedway, located 25 miles north of Denver in Erie, Colo., on several previous occasions. Saturday’s Auto Trader marks the first time they are being brought together in a combined format. 

Fast Facts

What: Auto Trader 150

Where: Colorado National Speedway, Erie, Colo.

Who: NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Midwest Series and Southwest Series

When: Sat., June 4 at 8:10 p.m. (Mountain Time).

Posted awards: $66,982.

Race length: 150 laps, 43.75 miles

Track layout: 3/8-mile oval.

Track contact: Doug Greer, (303) 828-0116.

Pre-Race Schedule (All Times Local): Registration begins 8 a.m., Practice 12-2 p.m., Bud Pole Qualifying 4:50 p.m.

Tickets: $18 for adults, $6.00 for youth (10-14), Under 10 free with paid adult

 

NASCAR AUTOZONE ELITE DIVISION, MIDWEST SERIES AND SOUTHWEST SERIES STARS

FACE OFF JUNE 4 AT COLORADO NATIONAL SPEEDWAY

* Auto Trader 150 to Award Championship Points for Two Series

* Joanides Predicts Close Qualifying Competition for 32 Starting Spots
 

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (May 24, 2005) – The best of the Midwest and Southwest will face off in a special NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division combination race, June 4 at Colorado National Speedway in Erie, Colo. The Auto Trader 150 will include drivers from two series – the NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series and NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Midwest Series – which use identical race cars. Drivers will earn championship points towards both series in this race.

Thirty-two starting positions are available for the 150-lap event, placing a premium on qualifying as full delegations from both series are expected to attend, as well as a few local NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series drivers that may attempt to qualify.

Bud Pole qualifying, scheduled for 4:50 p.m. on race day, will determine the top 20 starting positions. Immediately after time trials, the remaining drivers who did not earn one of the top 20 positions will compete in a 20-lap qualifying race. The top six finishers will advance from this 20-lap race and fill positions 21-26 on the starting grid.

“Qualifying is going to be huge,” said driver Nick Joanides, of Woodland Hills, Calif. “It’s going to be a tough show to make, no doubt.”

Joanides, 35, has a unique perspective on this combination event. Prior to 2005, Joanides competed full-time on the Southwest Series, making 60 starts and notching a career-best fourth-place finish in the point standings in 2001. This year Joanides has migrated to the Midwest Series. He expects the top 20 qualifying positions will be separated by 2/10 of a second or less, and predicts that even the top teams will struggle.

“One little slip in qualifying and you’ll be looking for a provisional or racing in the B Main [qualifying race],” said Joanides.

The final six starting spots are available as provisional starting positions, for any driver who does not qualify in time trials or the 20-lap qualifying race. Those positions will be awarded as follows:

Provisional starting position 27 is available to the highest ranking of the top 30 car owners in the final 2004 NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Midwest Series car owner point standings, who has not qualified for one of the original 20 starting positions or transferred from the qualifying race.

Provisional starting position 28 is available to the highest ranking of the top 30 car owners in the current 2005 NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series car owner point standings, who has not qualified for one of the original 20 starting positions or transferred from the qualifying race.

Provisional starting position 29 is available to the highest ranking of the top 30 drivers in the final 2004 NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Midwest Series driver point standings, who has not qualified for one of the original 20 starting positions, transferred from the qualifying race, or already been awarded a provisional.

Provisional starting position 30 is available to the highest ranking of the top 30 drivers in the current 2005 NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series driver point standings, who has not qualified for one of the original 20 starting positions, transferred from the qualifying race, or already been awarded a provisional.

Provisional starting position 31 is available to any past NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Midwest Series champion driver, who participated as a driver in the 2004 Midwest Series and who did not qualify for one of the original 20 starting positions, transfer from the qualifying race, or have already been awarded a provisional.

The last spot on the starting grid, provisional starting position 32, is available to any past NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series champion driver, who did not qualify for one of the original 20 starting positions, transfer from the qualifying race, or have already been awarded a provisional.

If a former NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Midwest or Southwest Series champion driver is not assigned one or both of these final positions, they will be assigned to the next highest-ranking eligible driver(s) from either series, based on the final 2004 NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Midwest Series championship driver point standings or the current 2005 NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series championship driver point standings, who did not qualify for one of the original 20 starting positions or transfer from the qualifying race or have already been awarded a provisional.  If any provisional position(s) remains unfilled, then those position(s) will become available to the next eligible car from the qualifying procedure for this event. 

AUTO TRADER 150 NEWS & NOTES

Ø       Points … As a combination race with the Midwest and Southwest Series, the Auto Trader 150 will award full championship points in both series, based on the finishing order. All participating drivers will be credited with a start in each series. For example, the winning driver will receive 180 points towards the Midwest Series championship and 180 points towards the Southwest Series championship.

Ø       History at Colorado National … Both series have raced at Colorado National Speedway, located 25 miles North of Denver, since the early 1990s. The Southwest Series has made 12 appearances there while the Midwest Series has raced at the track on eight previous occasions. The Auto Trader 150 marks the first time that these two series have raced together in a combination event.

Ø       Winning drivers … 10 different drivers have won in the Southwest Series at Colorado National. Three drivers who have each won two events at the track: Auggie Vidovich (with wins in 2000 and 2001), M.K. Kanke (1997 and 1999) and Rick Carelli (1992 and 1995). In the Midwest Series, Steve Carlson is the winningest driver with three wins (2000, 2001 and 2002). Carelli, incidentally, also won a Midwest Series race at the track in 1991, when it was known as the ARTGO Challenge Series.

Ø       Who’s Faster … If past Bud Pole qualifying speeds are any indication, the Southwest Series may be favored to put one of its drivers on the pole. The Southwest Series’ Bud Pole qualifying record at Colorado National is 15.358 seconds (87.902 mph), set by Eric Holmes in 2004. In the Midwest Series, the record belongs to Mark Kraus, at 15.919 seconds (84.804 mph) set in 2000.

Ø       Local Connection … While many from the Midwest Series and Southwest Series are facing a long trip to and from the track, several Colorado and Denver-area drivers will be right at home. Home state drivers scheduled to compete in the Auto Trader 150 include Roger Avants (Littleton), Kevin Clark (Colorado Springs), Greg Fowler (Erie), Daniel Mientka (Colorado Springs), Trevor Morrical (Brighton) and Bruce Yackey (Greeley).

Fast Facts

What: Auto Trader 150

Where: Colorado National Speedway, Erie, Colo.

Who: NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Midwest Series and Southwest Series

When: Sat., June 4 at 8:10 p.m. (Mountain Time).

Posted awards: $66,982.
 

Race length: 150 laps, 43.75 miles

 

Track layout: 3/8-mile oval.

Track contact: Doug Greer, (303) 828-0116.

Pre-Race Schedule (All Times Local): Registration begins 8 a.m., Practice 12-2 p.m., Bud Pole Qualifying 4:50 p.m.

Tickets: $18 for adults, $6.00 for youth (10-14), Under 10 free with paid adult.

Online Info: coloradospeedway.com or nascarregionalracing.com

For More Information, Contact:

        Jeremy Davidson, NASCAR Public Relations, (386) 681-4173 or jdavidson@nascar.com

Photo: Nick Joanides, No. 45 E-Z Lube/Mighty Auto Parts Chevrolet (photo credit: Steve Benesh)

 

Pettit Masters Mesa Marin in Southwest Series Action

 

DAYTONA BEACH, FLA. (May 16, 2005) Defending NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series champion Jim Pettit II from Prunedale, Calif. continued his quest for a second series title by winning the Rialto Concrete Products “100” Saturday night at Mesa Marin (Calif.) Raceway. Pettit held off a persistent charge from Auggie Vidovich throughout the race to take the victory by a mere .003 seconds ahead of Vidovich. Burney Lamar, Dan Holtz, and Bud Pole Award winner Jeff Jefferson rounded out the top five finishers.

 

Jeff Jefferson of Naches, Wash. has won the season ending Bud Pole Award for the past four consecutive seasons on the Northwest Series and he hopes he can continue that streak in his first full-time Southwest Series campaign. Jefferson toured the high-banked half-mile paved oval with a quick lap of 18.552 seconds/97.025 mph to top the speed charts in qualifying. Nick Lynch, M.K. Kanke, Greg Pursley, and Vidovich rounding out the fast five after qualifying concluded. Jefferson in his Lemay Auto Museum/Tri-County Parts Dodge drew a six-car invert to the 100-lap race and would start sixth putting Pettit on the pole with Vidovich outside front row for the third consecutive race.

 

After seeing Vidovich take the lead on the opening lap in the past two Southwest Series races, Pettit was ready to pounce as the field of 27 cars took the green flag. Pettit motored his Racing for the Missing Ford into turn one beating Vidovich at his own game. Vidovich settled into second. The field quickly sorted out behind the lead duo, but with only 100 laps in which to race, everybody was determined to take advantage of any miscues.

 

Long-time series veteran M.K. Kanke of Frazier Park, Calif. asserted his Perricone Juices Chevrolet under Vidovich on lap three letting the former champ know his was on his game. Vidovich prevailed and the Kanke fell in line in third position. Greg Pursley and Nick Lynch rounded out the top five at lap 10 with Jefferson, Burney Lamar, Eddy McKean, Dan Holtz, and Brandon Riehl completing the top ten in the running order.

 

Pettit held the point at lap 26 when he started lapping cars. Pettit was able to move effortlessly through the lap traffic and build a small lead on Vidovich. During this green flag run Doug McCoun suffered mechanical troubles ending his night with a disappointing 27th place finish.

 

Jefferson asserted his Dodge into the mix by passing Lynch on lap 28 for sixth and setting up a race long battle with Lamar and Pursley. The first caution came out on lap 40 for Nick Lynch as he cut a right front tire and slammed the outside turn one wall. Lynch and his crew would return to the race and finish 25th. The quick yellow saw the field restart on lap 43 with Pettit out front followed by Vidovich, Kanke, Pursley, and Jefferson. But as quickly as the green flew, the caution came our again as Sunoco Rookie leader Dustin Jones careened off the inside backstretch wall after contact with another car on the restart. Jones was uninjured but his car was heavily damaged.

 

The race restarted again on lap 50 with Pettit holding the point with Vidovich in pursuit followed by a determined Kanke who was looking for his fifth Mesa Marin victory. That victory would elude Kanke as he cut a tire and had to pit dropping him two laps down under green. As Kanke pitted, Jefferson got underneath Pursley for third while Lamar and McKean battled side-by-side for several laps. Pursley took third back on lap 53 with McKean passing Jefferson for fourth on the outside in turn four on lap 56.

 

The third caution came out on lap 59 for Sunoco Rookie David Mayhew when his Chevrolet made contact with the turn two wall. Mayhew’s night was over. While under caution Brandon Riehl suffered ignition trouble ending his night early. Riehl has been one of the fastest cars at each Southwest Series events this season but bad luck has sidelined his efforts so far. Pettit continued his domination on the lap 64 restart.

 

The final caution came out when Keith Spangler was sent spinning down the back stretch after contact with another car. Spangler was able to rejoin the field and would finish 14th.

 

By lap 85, Pettit and Vidovich broke away from the rest of the field and put lapped cars between them and the rest of the top ten. Lamar was in third with Jefferson in fourth, with McKean rounding out the top five. McKean was looking for a way around Jefferson when his Pontiac got loose in turn four dropping him back to ninth with only ten laps to go.

 

At the lap 90 mark, Pettit was still in control of the race but Vidovich was asserting himself pressuring Pettit at each turn. Lamar held down the third position with Holtz moving by Jefferson for fourth. Eric Holmes was running sixth while Sunoco rookie Ryan Foster had moved up to seventh from his 22nd starting position. McKean was back to eighth followed by Greg Voigt and Stan Silva Jr.

 

Eddy McKean made a late race charge passing both Foster and Holmes over the final three laps to move back to the sixth position. As the checkered flag flew Pettit was able to hold off Vidovich by a mere .003 seconds to claim his first victory of the year and regain the series point lead after four races.

 

“These Southwest Series races are hard to win,” Pettit said. “Auggie was better than I was in turns one and two, but I had the advantage in turns three and four. It was great racing with Auggie and I know he wanted to win a third straight race, but I felt this placed owed me one and finishing second was not an option.”

 

“I really can’t be disappointed to finish second,” Vidovich said. “We had a great car and we had another great finish.”

 

Lamar was excited to finish third with a car that was not quite right. “We struggled all day trying to make the car turn,” Lamar said. “We are happy with the finish as it feels like a win after the day we have had. A top three finish gives us a lot of momentum heading to Colorado.”

 

Back luck has plagued Dan Holtz all season, but a forth place finish is just what the doctor ordered. “I just love racing here at Mesa Marin,” Holtz said. “Just when I get down on myself, we have a solid finish. It was fun racing the guys tonight and bring the car home in one piece. My hat’s of to Jim and his crew for the win.”

 

Bud Pole Award winner Jeff Jefferson started sixth and finished fifth to record his second top five finish of the season. “The car was fast, but so were a bunch of others and we just missed it a bit,” Jefferson said. “This series is tough and you have to be right every lap and we just got tight loose and could make it any further forward.”

 

Jefferson claimed his second consecutive Bud Pole Award with a quick lap of 18.552 seconds/97.025 mph to lead 27 drivers in qualifying. The race took just 40 minutes and 26 seconds to complete at an average speed of 74.196 mph. The action was slowed four times for 18 laps of caution. Ryan Foster claimed the PowerAde Power Move-of-the-Race Award for improving the most positions in the 100-lap event (14). Burney Lamar received the Featherlite Award for improving the most positions from the previous race. (22nd to 3rd).  Ryan Foster was also the top finishing Sunoco Rookie-of-the-Year candidate for the third straight race with an eighth place finish.

  

The Southwest Series will return to Mesa Marin Raceway in October for a special 300-lap event sponsored by Star Nursery.Com. The event will feature live pit stops drawing the top drivers from all over the western United States.

 

The next event for the Southwest Series will be Saturday, June 4 at Colorado National Speedway in Erie, Colo. The race is a combination event with the Midwest Series featuring the best drivers from two series’ of NASCAR’s AutoZone Elite Division.

 

Note: Pettit’s winning car is a Port City chassis with a Ford power plant from Top of the Hill Performance. Pettit is involved with Racing for the Missing featuring Tyrone Bryant of fort Wayne, IN. “Our Racing for the Missing is effort is such an essential part of what each and every community should be aware of, which is to educate each family member about being safe and having an open line of communication with each other so they feel comfortable in letting each other know where they are while away from home,” Pettit said.

 

Pettit Perfect in Mesa Marin Triumph

 

Bakersfield, Calif. (May 14, 2005) Jim Pettit II from Prunedale, Calif. led all 100 laps and held off a determined challenge from Auggie Vidovich by .003 seconds to win his first race of the season and sixth of his NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series career Saturday night at Mesa Marin Raceway.

 

Pettit started on the pole after fast qualifier Jeff Jefferson drew a six-car invert to start the Rialto Concrete Products “100”.  Burney Lamar, Dan Holtz, and Jeff Jefferson rounded out the top five finishers.

 

Jefferson claimed his second consecutive Bud Pole Award with a quick lap of 18.552 seconds/97.025 mph to lead 27 drivers in qualifying. Ryan Foster claimed the PowerAde Power Move-of-the-Race Award for improving the most positions in the 100-lap event (14). Burney Lamar received the Featherlite Award for improving the most positions from the previous race. (22nd to 3rd).  Ryan Foster was the top finishing Sunoco Rookie-of-the-Year candidate for the third straight race with an eighth place finish.

 

The race took just 40 minutes and 26 seconds to complete at an average speed of 74.196 mph. The action was slowed four times for 18 laps of caution.

 

The Southwest Series will return to Mesa Marin Raceway in October for a special 300-lap event sponsored by Star Nursery.Com. The event will feature live pit stops drawing the top drivers from all over the western United States.

 

The next event for the Southwest Series will be Saturday, June 4 at Colorado National Speedway in Erie, Colo. The race is a combination event with the Midwest Series featuring the best drivers from two series’ of NASCAR’s AutoZone Elite Division.

Rialto Concrete Products "100"


NASCAR AUTOZONE ELITE DIVISION, SOUTHWEST SERIES


Mesa Marin Raceway    May 14, 2005


Finish position/Driver/Hometown/Car Mfg/Laps-Status/Money Won


  1.      Jim Pettit, II, Prunedale Calif., Ford Taurus, 100, 74.196 mph, $3,100


  2.      Auggie Vidovich, Lakeside Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 100, $2,100


  3.      Burney Lamar, W. Sacramento Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 100, $2,200


  4.      Dan Holtz, Pacific Palisades Calif., Ford Taurus, 100, $1,100


  5.      Jeff Jefferson, Naches Wash., Dodge Intrepid, 100, $1,850


  6.      Eddy McKean, Jerome Idaho, Pontiac Grand Prix, 100, $1,400


  7.      Eric Holmes, Escalon Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 100, $900


  8.      Ryan Foster*, Anderson Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 100, $1,600


  9.      Greg Voigt, Santa Barbara Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 100, $1,200


 10.      Stan Silva, Jr, Castroville Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 100, $750


 11.      Thomas Martin, Auburn Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 100, $1,100


 12.      Rip Michels, San Fernando Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 100, $650


 13.      Bobby Lyon, Aqua Dulce Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 100, $600


 14.      Keith Spangler, Chatsworth Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 100, $525


 15.      Joe Herold, Del Mar Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 100, $900


 16.      Richard Johnson, Antioch Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 99, $475


 17.      Greg Pursley, Canyon Country Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 99, $450


 18.      Gary Lewis, Bothell Wash., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 99, $425


 19.      Don Campbell*, Campbell Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 98, $400


 20.      M K Kanke, Frazier Park Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 98, $775


 21.      Mike Ledbetter, Ceres Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 94, $350


 22.      Stephan Sadler*, Brea Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 88, $325


 23.      Brandon Riehl, Boring Ore., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 59, Ignition, $325


 24.      David Mayhew*, Atascadero Calif., Pontiac Grand Prix, 57, Accident, $325


 25.      Nick Lynch, Burley Idaho, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 45, $725


 26.      Dustin Jones*, Tucson Ariz., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 45, Accident, $325


 27.      Doug McCoun, Prunedale Calif., Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 13, Rear End, $325


Time of Race: 0 hrs., 40 mins, 26 secs                    
Average Speed:74.196 mph           
Margin of Victory:.003 Seconds


BUD POLE AWARD:  Jeff Jefferson, 42 LeMay Auto Museum/Tri County Parts Dodge


FEATHERLITE AWARD:  Burney Lamar, 1 HPS Mechanical/Victory Circle/Groeniger Chevrolet


POWERADE AWARD:  Ryan Foster *, 21 TM Kustom Signs/Golden Gate Chevrolet


 LUNATI CREW CHIEF AWARD: Duane Sharp, 03 Racing for the Missing Ford


Caution Flags:           Laps 40-42; 45-50; 59-63; 76-79.  4 for 18 laps.


Lap Leaders:               Jim Pettit, II 1-100.


Total Laps Led:           Jim Pettit, II 100.  0 changes involving 1 drivers.


Top 10 Driver Points:  Jim Pettit, II 660, Auggie Vidovich 651, Burney Lamar 612, 
Jeff Jefferson 567, M K Kanke 565, Greg Voigt 548, Eddy McKean


547, Thomas Martin 504, Joe Herold 484, Greg Pursley 471


Top 3 Rookie Points:  Don Campbell 34, Dustin Jones 32, Ryan Foster 30, 
Stephan Sadler 29, David Mayhew 26


Next Race:                  Colorado National Speedway June 4, 2005


* Denotes Sunoco Rookie of the Year Contender

 

 

NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series Heads to Mesa Marin Raceway for Round Four

***Vidovich on a Roll

***Lewis Looking for Southern Exposure

***Alumni Spotlight

***Sunoco Rookie Ryan Foster

***Raudman Returns

DAYTONA BEACH, FLA. (May 11, 2005) Mesa Marin Raceway in Bakersfield, Calif., has been the cornerstone of the NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series for the past twenty years and will host the series for the 61st time in the running of the Rialto Concrete Products “100” this Saturday night.

2003 Southwest Series champion Auggie Vidovich from Lakeside, Calif. dominated the action when the series was at Mesa Marin Raceway just one month ago as he scored his seventh career triumph. He then claimed the victory two weeks ago at Stockton 99 speedway to take over the series point lead after three races.

“We just want to continue to win races,” Vidovich said. “Mike Harvick has meant a lot to this team and has put great cars under me. We have been able to take advantage of track position and stay out front. I always look forward to racing at Mesa and maybe we can make it three in a row.”

For 2004 series champion Jim Pettit II, who resides in Prunedale, Calif., to win at Mesa Marin holds special meaning. "This track has been ‘the track’ on the series for years," Pettit said. "This is a track a driver needs to win at when you run on the Southwest Series. The racing here is so good and just when you think you are going to tame the place, it bites you. I have been close here before and this weekend I am confident about our chances."

A good qualifying lap will be at a premium for one of 30 starting positions in Saturday's 100-lap race as drivers vie for their share of $46,644 in posted awards in race four of the 14-race championship series.

Leading a contingent of racers from the Northwest Series is former Northwest Series champion Gary Lewis from Bothell, Wash. Lewis finished fourth April 9 and looks to claim another victory on the high-banked half mile paved oval. Lewis scored his first Southwest Series win at Mesa Marin Raceway in 1999.

”I am running a few Southwest races this year to prepare for the [NASCAR Toyota All-Star] Showdown,” Lewis said. “I like running at Mesa and have had some success here in the past.”

Two-time and defending Northwest series champion Jeff Jefferson is attempting to become only the second driver to win two NASCAR regional titles in the same year. Rhode Island’s Mike Stefanik accomplished that feat twice in 1997-98. "The Southwest Series runs at some real great racetracks," Jefferson said. "I really wanted to do something different this year and with the support of my wife, my crew chief Chuck Carruthers, car owner Tony Finley, and my sponsor The Lemay Museum, we are going to go out and win races and hopefully we’ll be in contention down the stretch.”

For the Sunoco rookie contenders, a trip to Mesa Marin Raceway could be daunting, but this group has not phased in the least. Ryan Foster has made two starts this season and has scored two top ten finishes. He finished seventh at MMR April 9 and is confident a top five run is possible. “I am having a lot of fun running with the Southwest Series guys,” Foster said. “The series welcomed me and the caliber of drivers makes the racing great.”

Making his first appearance of the season will be 2001 Southwest Series champion Craig Raudman of Redding, Calif. Raudman will be driving a Chevrolet owned by local businessman Ted Davidson in a one-race deal. “I love this series and to not be racing has been tough,” Raudman said. “I will run a few races this year and I plan to be back full-time next season. The racing at Mesa Marin is always tough and a track that I really like.”

The Rialto Concrete Products “100” is set to take the green flag at 9:00 pm this Saturday night where M.K. Kanke of Frazier Park, Calif. leads all active drivers with four victories. Kanke finished sixth at MMR back on April 9.

* Alumni Spotlight: Kurt Busch (1999 Southwest Series champion) is currently 4th in NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series standings while Kevin Harvick (1994 Southwest Series ROTY) sits 11th. Ron Hornaday (1992-1993 Southwest Series champion) is 6th in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series standings with Matt Crafton (2000 Southwest Series champion) residing in 10th place after five races.

* There have been 33 different winners in 61 Southwest Series races at MMR. Frank Adamo is the series track holder with a quick lap of 17.839 seconds setback on October 16, 1998. Loran Kelly holds the race record for the 100-lap distance at 36 minutes, 44 seconds set on June 30, 1990. Mike Chase is the all-time win leader at MMR with nine trips to victory lane. Current Southwest Series point leader Auggie Vidovich has three victories at MMR.

* Joe Herold and Jim Pettit II will partner with Racing for the Missing, a division of the Nation's Missing Children Organization (NMCO) for the 2005 racing season.

* 2004 NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series national champion Greg Pursley returns to the Southwest Series full-time in 2005 driving for Craig Keough's Star Nursery Motorsports team. Pursley finished 12th at Phoenix and has two runner-up finishes at MMR.

* Southwest Series Drivers Greg Voigt and Nick Lynch will be at the AutoZone store located at 1615 Brundage Lane in Bakersfield on Friday, May 13 from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm signing autographs and displaying their racecars.

FAST FACTS

The race: Rialto concrete Products “100”. (Race No. 4 of the 2005 NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series season.)

The track: Mesa Marin Raceway, Bakersfield, Calif. (Half-mile paved oval.)

The date/time: Saturday, May 14, 9:00 p.m. (PT).

Race length: 50 miles, 1o0 laps.

2004 winner: Event not held

2005 Top 10: 1. Auggie Vidovich 481, 2. Jim Pettit II 480, 3. M.K. Kanke 462, 4. Burney Lamar 447, 5. Jeff Jefferson 412, 6. Greg Voigt 410, 7. Eddy McKean 397, 8. Thomas Martin 374, 9. Joe Herold 366, 10. Nick Lynch 361.

2005 Top 5 Sunoco Rookies: 1. Dustin Jones 26, 2. Don Campbell 25, 3. Stephan Sadler 21, 4. Ryan Foster 20, 5. David Mayhew 19.

Track Contact:

Larry Collins

661/366-5711

www.mesamarin.com
 

SWT 2004 Articles

SWT 2003 DRIVER ROSTER and PIX

2003 SWT Pages

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