BUDDY AND HIS 22 HOT ROD LEADS 47 LAPS AT MADERA SPEEDWAY

October 18, 2014 - The $10,000.00 to win race at Madera Speedway drew 25 cars to compete in the 125 lap Short Track Shoot Out, many of them with countless laps of experience.  Buddy piloted his rocket fast hot rod to be the second fastest qualifier, just missing fast time by a gap of 0.014!  And at the same time posting a personal best qualifying effort.

Buddy drew a four, starting him on the second row outside.  The race was broken up into three segments, 50-50-25 laps.  He patiently and skillfully moved around the other cars on the outside, and took the lead on lap 23, and never looked back!  There were a few restarts within the first 50 lap segment, Buddy choosing the outside row for each of them, it is the choice of the leader to restart in the #1 or #2 position on the front row.  Although a few drivers thought it would be to their advantage to drive him up into the high groove on the restarts, the cool headed 22 wheelman drove right around them.  Buddy rocketed his blistering fast hot rod across the finish line in first place upon the completion of the first 50 lap segment.

In his interview he thanked his crew for working their butts off and his sponsors for their support.

After a short break the field lined straight up, with Buddy having the option to start on the pole or outside pole.  He chose the outside pole for the second 50 lap segment.  He once again jumped out into the lead, and with another strong finish in this segment, it would put him in a perfect position to start the last 25 lap segment.  However, loosing all power on lap 70, he pulled into the infield pits.   The crew busted tail to get him back out.  Unfortunately, they came up empty handed and had to forfeit the remaining laps for the night due to a coil in the distributor.

It was extremely heartbreaking for everyone, including the fans.  They were wanting the 15 year old wheelman from Bakersfield, California to get his first win of his young late model career at Madera Speedway.

Buddy gives a big shout out to all his Madera Speedway fans, staff and promoter, Kenny Shepherd for their professionalism, hospitality and enthusiasm!  All the help of his crew, sponsors and Mike King.

Next Race:  November 1, 2014 @ Kern Co Raceway Park, honoring Make-A-Wish.  Buddy has a surprise in store for one lucky fan!

Race On!!!