GLENDALE, California -- Steve Portenga's return to the NASCAR Winston West Series was marked by a 5th place finish in the Bosch 150 held at Phoenix International Raceway on Sunday February 2, 2003.
Starting in the 12th spot, Steve started picking off competitors and managed to get as high as the second position behind Ken Schrader. On one restart Steve managed to get the nose of the Bashas' Markets, King Taco Restaurants, Roto-Rooter and First Magnus Financial Corp. Ford Taurus under Schrader going into turn one. "I thought I could get him going into the corner, but he's pretty sharp. He pinched me down coming off the corner and was able to hold me off." said Steve. The # 77 Performance Motorsports Ford Taurus ran flawless all day. " Our engine builder, Ed Ash, put together a stout piece that ran strong all day and kept me in contention. This championship run is not just about winning races, but having the equipment that will get us to the finish line."
" Our crew did a super job prepping the car and getting us in and out during pit stops" said Crew Chief Larry Nava. "We pitted with the lead lap cars and were able to gain positions during our stops. My hats' off to these hard working guys."
Steve brought the race car back unscathed, except for an after the checkered flag incident with the # 16 car. " I don't know what he was thinking, but he drove into my right door and caved it in" said Steve. " Looks like it's going to be a long season."
The second stop for the newly restructured Grand National Winston West Series is at the Las Vegas Bullring on Saturday April 12, 2003. " This team always runs good at the Bullring and last year they led the last segment for 97 laps before a flat tire dropped them down to 5th place" said Steve. "I think we'll do pretty good there."
