3/15/2011
Sprint Source
Larson’s Hopes For Top WoO Finish Deflated Under Red Flag at Chico
Larson’s Hopes For Top WoO Finish Deflated Under Red Flag at Chico
Chico, CA – March 12, 2011. On his way to a solid top ten finish in the World of Outlaws sanctioned Mini Gold Cup Saturday at Chico’s Silver Dollar Speedway, 2010 King of California Kyle Larson never would have expected that his forward progress from 15th starting would be stymied while stopped under a red flag. However, with only nine laps left seventh running Larson was in the wrong place when a brakeless Bill Rose found the 18 year olds mount, which was parked on the front straight. Rose’s impact into Larson’s right rear tire caused a puncture that effectively ended the Elk Grove, California driver’s quest for a top five finish.
Larson’s first run of the new season in the Stadelhofer Construction/Peppermill Casino #99 got off to a promising start when he stopped the clocks eighth quick of the 38 cars assembled on a surprisingly dry surface. A third place finish in the fourth heat locked Larson into the night’s 35 lap headline event. With several slower qualifiers taking advantage of front row starts in the heat races and advancing to the dash that grids the first five rows of the main event, Larson found himself starting 15th.
Starting position didn’t prove to be a deterrent to Larson once the green flag waved on the first winged 410 feature in California in 2011. By lap 12 Larson had moved into the top ten and began a spirited battle with defending WoO champion Jason Meyers that lasted several laps. After both got by Rose to move into eighth and ninth by lap 20 the pair scooted by Jac Haudenschild to each advance one more position closer to the front.
Finally, on lap 24 Larson fought his way past the first ever Californian to win the WoO title. Larson, who already has an ASCS National and two midget wins in four previous starts in 2011, quickly pulled away from Meyers and began to close on sixth running Sammy Swindell. The momentum was halted on lap 26 when Larson’s teammate Brent Kaeding turned over in turn one.
After being stopped for several seconds with the rest of the pack as Kaeding was tended to, Larson’s right rear tire became the cushion Rose found to immobilize his car. When the field pushed off it was obvious Larson would be headed pitside for new rubber. Larson restarted 17th and settled for 16th at the finish as Craig Dollansky led every lap for the win.
“I couldn’t believe it when it happened,” Larson explained after the race. “I know it was probably something that couldn’t be avoided, but it was the last thing I expected. We were fast all night and I was really hoping for a top five finish. My guys, Clark Riolo and Matt Britt, had the car set up just right for the slick conditions out there. We’re looking to get back on track next weekend with the races at two of my favorite places, Hanford and Tulare. I’ve won the last two races at Hanford and a third would be a nice way to rebound from tonight.”
MAJ1K Motorsports send their deepest prayers and condolences for the people of Japan as well as other people affected by this tragedy. Even the smallest of donations will help make a difference, please take the time to donate. For information regarding donations. http://news.yahoo.com/s/yblog_newsroom/20110311/wl_yblog_newsroom/japan-earthquake-and-tsunami-how-to-help Thank you.
Larson’s racing efforts are sponsored by Stadelhofer Construction, Peppermill ~ Resort ~ Spa Casino ~ Reno, ButlerBuilt Professional Seat Systems, Simpson Race Products, Abreu Vineyards, JW Web Design, Kaeding Performance, Safety Solutions and All Star Performance.
For more information and news on 18-year-old Kyle Larson log onto www.kylelarsonracing.com.
Race: March 12, 2011
Photos Courtesy of Steve’s Racing Photos
www.stevesracingphotos.com
Submitted By: Kyle Larson Racing