Clauson wins 40 Lap KOTS

American star Bryan Clauson took home the Silverware last night at Western Springs from current #1NZ Michael Pickens and Australian speedster Nathan Smee after a tough 40 lap battle. For some reason I have a feeling that this is actually very similar result to how one of the first of the ‘big’ races, perhaps the 30 laper went last year… de ja vu?? ( in which case J Coons Jr is looking good for the upcoming races)

Thanks to the Salter Motorsport team, I was lucky enough to have a one of the best seats in the house for a few races thanks to one of the push truck guys, and got to experience the heats from the infield. The action was fast and furious, with wheel to wheel heat racing from some of the best in the business.

Following all the heats, It was an all USA front row with #39Clausen and fellow countryman #99Kyle Larson sitting on the front row, followed by Michael Pickens and Nathan Smee , while Kevin Swindell had issues all night and was towards the rear in the #1USA machine. Visiting stars Coons JR and Aussie Troy Jenkins didn’t even make the start for one reason or another.

The worlds most passionate flagman drops the green and off they go (I think his name is Brian?)

Didn’t get far before we had our first yellow flag,#99 Larson spins sending him to the rear of the field. This was actually a real treat for fans, as he was far and away the fastest car on the track for a number of laps making his way up to eventually I think 5th or 6th (I’ll check this via Macgors at some point). Also showing speed were #25 Scott Buckley and #88 Brad Mosen.

Up front Clauson plays hare with Pickens and Smee chasing. Play by play will be better seen by video but it looked like Pickens got within striking distance perhaps 4-5 laps from home, but couldn’t make the pass and then almost seemed to decide to accept second after bouncing off a rut and losing a fair bit of track space ,perhaps thinking of the 50 lapper etc coming up.

Anyway… finish order.#39 Bryan Clauson for Synergy/King/United truck parts/ NOS energy.

Second #1nz Michael Pickens – Auckland Ssangyong/ BSL/GVI/Parker

3rd place Australias Nathan Smee- Spike/ Race Wear

That’s it for now, the rest of the album will go up on my MGN facebook page as soon as I have broadband back and now its off to baypark to see this guy in action.