For the second consecutive week, Jerry Robertson easily conquered the Rent-Rite West Productions Late Model division at Colorado National Speedway. Robertson, of Arvada, CO., owned an eight second advantage when the checkered flag fell on Saturday night’s NASCAR Weekly Racing Series 40 lap feature event at the 3/8 mile paved oval. The 38-year-old, who ended a lengthy victory drought in last weekend’s season opener, looks to have already established his new race team into a serious title contender.
Starting seventh on the grid, Robertson moved to the front of the field quickly, and on the tenth circuit he used the outside groove to overhaul Joe Bellm for the lead. Robertson’s Pontiac Grand Prix immediately began to pull away from the pack, while fast qualifier Roger Avants moved into second place just before the halfway mark. Although Robertson’s pace was clearly unmatched, his lead was further padded during the closing stages when Avants became involved in a heated battle with Bruce Yackey for the runner-up award. Yackey edged out Avants for second place, with Bellm and Scotty Backman completing the top five.
Snap-On Tools ProTruck action saw Paul Deines score his first career victory in the division, as he led the entire 30 lap distance. Bruce Betts, who had been steadily closing in on Deines, appeared ready to make a move as the pair received the white flag. Deines was up to the challenge however, and drove a flawless final lap to win by two truck lengths. Rick Smith took third place, followed closely by Chappy Adkins and Joe James, Jr.; Betts became the new points leader.
The Performance Wheel and Tire Super Stock division also saw a first-time winner, as Mike Bowen took top honors in the 25 lap feature. Early in the event, with Bob Anderson and Darrel Bauer battling side by side for the lead, Bowen executed the winning pass as he used the low line to overtake both drivers. Bowen then powered away, while Mike Markison secured second place late in the race. Anderson, Bauer, and Larry Davidson rounded out the top five.
Al Duran picked up the first place hardware in the Sachs Lawlor Figure-Eights. Tommy Roe was running in second place and looked ready to threaten, but blew his engine with six laps remaining and handed the position over to father Dave Roe. The elder Roe was unable to close in on Duran, and settled with the runner-up spot. Keith Swenson crossed the stripe in third.
Colorado National Speedway’s next event will be the "NASCAR Late Model Challenge" on Saturday night, April 15th. Along with the Late Models, competition will include the Grand American Modifieds, the Super Stocks, and the second running of the Trains.
