FONTANA, California – It seemed like few drivers and their cars would be spared at the California 125 at California Speedway. The course measured 2.8 miles with 21 turns. The race utilized the front stretch and turns one and two of the super speedway, and then dropped into a tight and twisting road course that seemed designed more for motorcycle or kart racing, rather than NASCAR.
NASCAR stepped in and changed the road course to improve safety and competition after excessive tire wear and accidents during practice.
In spite of a flat tire from debris that dropped him from fifth to tenth, Brett Thompson was pleased to maintain his top-ten record in California by finishing tenth at the California 125. He headed home with one the few cars without damage. “We have said in the past that we prefer speedway ovals and we do, but our team is starting to feel good about our ability to deliver a decent showing on road courses. Our #61 Pets Best Insurance Monte Carlo road course car was set up perfect. Our team and our equipment are all coming together really well and we are racing better than ever. We are looking forward to Altamont and the Toyota All-Star Showdown at Irwindale!” said Brett.
NASCAR had issued warning to teams and drivers about tire wear due to portions of the road course where many drivers were locking up and damaging tires. Goodyear was involved and working with all race teams to monitor tire wear during practice sessions. NASCAR decided to modify the road course to reduce excessive tire wear. According to #61 Team Owner, Rich Thompson, “The changes made at this race by NASCAR were needed and made a big difference. We were all out there burning up tires and damaging cars. The changes made by NASCAR created a better race, protected our drivers and our equipment.”
Visit our website at thompsonnascar. com to learn more about our racer development programs, to order race tickets or hear about special offers!
Brett Thompson and Thompson Motorsports #61 Pets Best Insurance Monte Carlo are proudly sponsored by Rich Thompson Trucking, Pets Best Insurance, ShelterBest – Racing to Save Pets, Wind Mill Inns & Suites, Lawson Products, and Habby Too Gourmet Barbeque Sauce.
