IRWINDALE, California -- Rip Michels and his Stock Building Supply/Ladco Racing/ Victory Circle Chassis Chevrolet Monte Carlo headed to Phoenix International Raceway located in Avondale, Arizona to compete in the “Copper World Classic 100” this past Sunday. This was the seasons opening race for the NASCAR AutoZone Elite Southwest Tour Series.
On Saturday, the team unloaded the car for the first of two practices sessions. Rip set the 18th fastest time during practices number one with a lap of 28.813. The team made adjustments to the car, and posted the 10th fastest time in practice number two with a lap of 28.374. As qualifying inspection approached, the team did not feel confident in the chassis set up they had on the car. They made several front-end geometry changes that they felt would help the balance of the car.
The team would have to wait until Sunday morning to find out if they went in the right direction with the adjustments.
On Sunday morning, with temperatures in the 20’s at the track, Rip would have to go out 10th in the qualifying order. The track, as well as the crews, were extremely cold, Rip was able to put his Stock Building Supply Chevrolet in 7th on the starting grid with a lap time of 27.729. Rip would start the race forth row inside. At the drop of the green flag, Rip, made his way to the fifth position. Rip and NASCAR AutoZone Elite Midwest Driver standout, Tim Shendel, put on a battle for the fifth position. When the checkered flag fell, Rip cross the line in the fifth position.
“We were pleased with our performance today,” said Rip. “The car was a top five car all day. We were just a little to tight to pass Mr. Shendel. A top five is a great way to start off the season, considering last year we finished 42nd here.”
“As a car owner, I could not be more pleased with the guys on the crew,” said Car Owner, Laurie Michels. “When you add new crew members as we did this year, it usually takes some time for the guys to get use to the system we have of doing things. The guys all got along great and really help each other. I really want to thank all of them for their commitment and desire to help this race team.”
