by: Chuck Green, Cg Photography
(Winter Haven, Fl.) Despite darkening skies, and a forecast of rain, over twenty teams from the Florida Legends Cars took to the pavement at Auburndale Speedway for this first winter test and tune series.
This series was collaboration between Rex Guy, Promoter, and owner of the speedway, and Russ Thompson of the legends cars of Florida.
“We wanted the teams, and drivers to have ample time to prepare for the upcoming winter nationals to be held in Orlando”, said Thompson.
Of course we would like to see one of our Florida teams bring home the winter nationals crown this year, he added.
The series was scheduled for three consecutive week-ends, but mother nature stepped in and promptly shortened the series to two week-ends by bringing record breaking cold weather, and even a snow flurry or two.
Action would begin with the track opening for practice, with plans to run a few heats, and a feature so the teams could actually simulate real race conditions.
Rex Guy commented, he was surprised to see the teams sharing information concerning their individual set ups. It is well know that the set up for Auburndale, and Orlando are very similar. “ You don’t find racers sharing information too often, I believe these guys are thinking about the big picture, and bringing the title home to Florida.
The action on the track was very competitive and all the drivers were giving each other the needed respect to insure no one went home with a damaged car. All three heats were run without incident, and the feature saw Jake Perkins, from nearby Ocala, Florida take the victory by a half a car length over friend, and teammate Tyler Smith.
I think we are really close, Perkins said in victory lane. We will come back here next week and try a few things to find a little more speed. We know when we get to Orlando that those guys will be tough.
The last week-end for the Winter Series is scheduled for January 23rd. All legends teams are invited, and encouraged to attend. For additional information, see www.auburndaleracing.com or www.legendscarsofflorida.com