LAS VEGAS, Nevada --Driver of the No. 23 Allegiant Air Chevrolet Spencer Clark dominated much of the NAPA Auto Parts 150 NASCAR West Series presented by NAPA Belts & Hose at Pikes Peak International Raceway Sunday before a failure ended his chances for his first West Series victory.
In his fourth series start and his first with new car owner Clay Andrews, Clark qualified second for the 150-lap race. The rookie ran strong taking the lead from Andrew Myers on lap 12 to lead 46 laps until David Gilliland took command.
Clark was able to regain the lead on lap 106 from 2003 West Series champion Scott Lynch. The 18-year-old pulled away from the field and was untouchable until a failed alternator sidelined him on lap 131. Despite mechanical woes, Clark led the most laps at 71.
“We came here with a brand new car, team and crew chief,” Clark said. “I felt very comfortable on the track. I just wish we could have made it the last 19 laps.”
The Las Vegan was scheduled to pull double duty Saturday by competing both at PPIR and at the Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in the Super Late Model division, where he held the points lead. Clark gave up the chance to defend his lead and possibly win the track championship to concentrate on the West Series race.
“We decided to concentrate on the West Series,” Clark said. “I need to focus on this new team and my full-year with Clay in the West and Busch Series in 2006.”
Clark is scheduled to drive next for Clay Andrews Racing at the Relocate Here 200 at California Speedway September 2.
