PORTLAND, Oregon — 16 year-old Keegan Walmer ended his productive career in the USAC Ford Focus Midget Series in a big way by winning the feature at Shasta Raceway Park on Saturday night. The victory is Walmer’s 12th between USAC Ford Focus and USAC Ford Focus Young Guns.
"This weekend wrapped up a memorable three years and I’m glad to get the win."— Keegan Walmer
Walmer is a member of the Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle driver development program who has spent 2011 in transition towards NASCAR Modified racing. Walmer plans to race a full season in the NASCAR Modifieds in 2012 along with select events in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series.
In qualifying, Walmer was fourth with a 16.005 second lap around the three-eights mile oval before finishing second in the trophy dash and third in the heat race.
A four car inversion placed Walmer on the pole for the 30 lap feature event with Walmer leading the field to green behind the wheel of the #3 K&N Filters / Reiser’s Fine Foods-sponsored car.
Walmer immediately drove away to a strong lead while the fast-time qualifier navigated his way through the pack. A great duel ensued between Walmer and the second place car but Keegan successfully held off the challenge to lead all 30 laps for the win.
Despite trailing in the USAC NorCal Ford Focus points by just 11 markers, Walmer has elected to switch his focus completely to NASCAR Modifieds following Shasta.
“This weekend wrapped up a memorable three years and I’m glad to get the win,” Walmer said. “I’ve grown tremendously and I know I am ready to move on to the next level. Thanks to everyone that has helped me!”
Walmer will climb back behind the wheel of his #98 Modified this Friday night at All American Speedway in a special event that is expected to attract a strong crowd. Walmer will carry a special pink paint scheme on the car in honor of breast cancer awareness.
“It was great to see Keegan close the USAC chapter of his career with a win,” Driver Coach Ron Sutton said. “I have no doubt he will be successful in the Modifieds next season!”
Keegan Walmer Racing and Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle thank partners: K&N Filters, Reser’s Fine Foods, Stoney Inn, Robinson Construction, K&K Motorsports, Scribner Plastics, Allstar Performance, Sunoco Race Fuels and Star Racing Supply.
