|
| Kittleson Finishes Strong at USA International | With high expectations entering the 36th season of championship stock car racing, freshman driver Travis Kittleson entertained thoughts of capturing the $50,000 Rookie Championship and additionally an eye on the $200,000 National Crown. A successful opening weekend in the ASA Racing Series, Kittleson has added confidence after the completion of action at USA International Speedway in the Jani-King 200.
The event began on a sour note for the driver of the number 30 Bob Steele Chevrolet, as Kittleson qualified in the 30th spot of the 46 racers at the season-opening event.
“The car was just a little tight. I had to wait on it too much in the turns. I thought we would turn a lot better lap than we did. We had much better car than our starting position showed. It was definitely a kick in the gut to qualify that poorly at my home track,” Kittleson said. “I wanted to start on the rear of the field and make some adjustments, but the officials wouldn’t allow that.”
Kittleson started the event on the outside of the 16th row and immediately showed his presence with advancing to the 20th position by lap 27. On the 51st circuit, Indiana competitor Brent Downey smacked the first turn outside wall, allowing several competitors to stop for service.
Kittleson ducked in the pits and came out behind race winner Butch Miller in the 22nd position. At lap 76, the Florida standout drove into eighth slot, right behind two-time ASA National Champion Gary St. Amant. By halfway, Kittleson continued to climb, muscling his way to sixth position in the 38-car starting field.
With 58 laps remaining in the Jani-king 200, Kittleson advanced to fourth position and on lap 155, he was in the third spot. In the closing stages, he dropped back two spots, to finish in fifth spot, getting passed by Butch Miller and Scott Lagasse Jr.
“We dug ourselves a hole in qualifying, but we had a good run in the race. We didn’t’ change much on the car all night. We just made some adjustments with air pressure. The pit crew did a great job in the pit area. The entire team is pumped up!”
The second event of the 2003 ASA Racing Series is set for Saturday, April 12 at Houston Motor Speedway in Houston (TX). The Texas 250 takes the green flag at 8 p.m. (Central) and will be telecast live on the SPEED CHANNEL.
Have an opinion on this story? Post a message on our Message Board!
or send a letter to the editor!
|
