LAS VEGAS, Nevada -- Travis Swalwell, a 20-year-old North Las Vegan, led every lap to win the 50-lap feature at Las Vegas Motor Speedway's Bullring this weekend. This is the first victory in the NASCAR Super Late Models division for the up-and-coming racer.
It was a close one as two caution flags went up in the last 10 laps, negating the 2.6-second lead he had over Scott Gafforini and Mike Cofer, who were trailing behind Travis nose-to-tail on the three-eighths-mile oval track.
On the final turn, Cofer got close enough to drop low and pull up to Swalwell's rear tire, but Swalwell persevered and won by a car length.
In September, Travis was named 2004 Super Late Models rookie of the year, and also holds the track's 2002 Charger division champion title, and was rookie of the year in Chargers in 2001 and Late Models in 2002.
Travis credits his wins to the support of his family, who make up a good portion of the No. 98 Buffalo Wild Wings team. “The most important key to success in racing is family,” Travis says.
Randy Swalwell, Travis’ father, is a former track champion at Las Vegas Motor Speedway's Bullring. After receiving a multiple sclerosis diagnosis six years ago, he continued racing for three years, and started grooming his son to become his replacement. Randy is now Travis' mentor and crew chief.
"I can honestly say I do not miss driving because I enjoy watching Travis drive so much," Randy said. "This win counts a one of the best nights ever, including those times when I was driving. We are all so proud of Travis.”
Travis Swalwell is sponsored by Buffalo Wild Wings, Pulte Homes, Bilstein Shock Absorbers, Universal Automotive, American Racing Supply, Canyon Creative, Newman & Associates, Imperial Iron, O’Hanleys 9”Rearend, 200 MPH Printers and Curtis Steel Co., Inc.
