On a cold and windy night a small but enthusiastic crowd was treated to a great night of racing for the Paved Oval season opener at Sandia Motor Speedway. Ashley Gantt gave notice that she will be a force to be reckoned with in the Modified Division this year. She set the standard taking the points lead with a win in the 20 lap feature. Dustin Tilbury, who had won the earlier heat race failed to answer the green flag in the feature due to mechanical problems. At the 10 lap mark, the car of Cameron Morga came to a stop between turn 3 and 4 with engine trouble. After a track inspection to check for oil the race resumed with Ashley in the lead. She steadily built the lead taking the checker by a comfortable margin over second place Gerald Haste.
Fans were treated to an exciting display of the super fast carts on the 1.4 mile paved road course. The first heat was won by Eban Cahan of Santa Fe. The second heat was won by Steven Pruitt of Albuquerque. The 14 lap feature was also won by Steven Pruitt.
The next night of the Paved Oval season will be May 6. Gates will open at 5 with the first race at 7. Make plans to attend. I promise the weather will be better. (I hope)