SONOMA, California — Brandon Ash and the Ash Racing Team looked forward to a good day on the race track at Infineon Raceway for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Toyota/SaveMart 350. In an effort to continue to gain exposure and experience on the track, Ash qualified the 02 Efusjion/Sprinter Trucking Dodge Charger in the 43rd position.
Qualifying day was a very trying day for the team. They were unsure of the performance of the car, especially after Crew Chief, Ed Ash, was injured in the garage while making adjustments to the car. Even injured, Ed Ash never stopped for a moment trying to make the car the best it possibly could be despite not having the best parts and equipment the top competitive teams have. However, that quickly turned to joy when Ash and the team learned that he indeed qualified for the race, proving that even the "little guys" can still make it. After receiving congratulations and good luck wishes from several drivers and teams the Ash Racing Team looked forward to an exciting race day.
Ash took the green flag in the 43rd position. Even though Ash was fighting a tight race car, he and the team worked hard to keep the 02 competitive for the entire 110-lap race. In conjunction with smart pit strategy and key adjustments Ash managed to earn the 16th position but cars with fresher tires and fuel were quick to gain positions on him.
Midway through the race Ash and Greg Biffle made contact spinning the 02; he quickly regained control and got back on the track determined to cross the finish line after the checkered flag was dropped. However, what looked like an exciting and competitive race for the 02 Dodge Avenger ended up being a disappointing day.
During lap 94, Joey Logano made contact with the 02 from behind sending Ash spinning out of line, making hard contact with the wall, spilling debris on the track and bringing out another caution flag. Ash was able to drive the car back to the garage and was unharmed by the impac t. Unfortunately, the same could not be said of the 02 Dodge Charger which suffered critical damage ending Ash's run just 16 laps short of the checkered flag. However, it was noted in the television broadcast this small independent team that showed up without their own pit crew and only handful of volunteers, mostly family, friends, and co-workers to help, were able to run with the top teams. They compared it to the average person competing in a game against the Yankees or Lakers.
While Ash came just short of the finish line he has not given up and continues to seek sponsorship or driving opportunities for future races.
