IRWINDALE, California -- Todd Burns, 2002 defending champion, captured his first victory of the 2003 season at Irwindale Speedway on Saturday night in the 75-lap Auto Club Late Model Main. Todd, driving the #4 Villa Roma Chevrolet, made that victory his 27th at Irwindale since the track's inception in '99.
The race was reminiscent of opening night at the speedway. Burns started fifth in the 27-car field and dove to the bottom to take positions from the front row starters. On lap 27, Burns took the lead from Scott Youngren and never relinquished it. The race was behind him with a tight pack of three battling for position. Burns' green-white-checkered finish is just what the team needed. The first race of the season saw Burns with a half straightaway lead only to have an ignition problem with 14 laps to go. The last time out Burns was running second when rain stopped the race with 16 to go. "The car was real good tonight. We made a change after qualifying and it definitely helped the car. Thanks to Villa Roma for coming back for the fifth season with us, Ron's Rear Ends, Maropulos Racing Engines, and everyone for all the help. Gary Collins of Collins Motorsports for building an awesome chassis. Also, thanks to my crew chief James Valk and all the guys on our team," Burns stated.
Look for this race to air on Fox Sports Net West on June 12th at 6:00 pm. For more information, log on to www.irwindalespeedway.com. Burns Motorsports will return to Irwindale on May 3rd.
