Larson’s Hopes For Top WoO Finish Deflated Under Red Flag at Chico
Chico, CA – March 12, 2011. On his way to a solid top ten finish in the World of
Outlaws sanctioned Mini Gold Cup Saturday at Chico’s Silver Dollar Speedway, 2010
King of California Kyle Larson never would have expected that his forward progress from
15th starting would be stymied while stopped under a red flag. However, with only nine
laps left seventh running Larson was in the wrong place when a brakeless Bill Rose found
the 18 year olds mount, which was parked on the front straight. Rose’s impact into
Larson’s right rear tire caused a puncture that effectively ended the Elk Grove,
California driver’s quest for a top five finish.
Larson’s first run of the new season in the Stadelhofer Construction/Peppermill
Casino #99 got off to a promising start when he stopped the clocks  eighth
quick of the 38 cars assembled on a surprisingly dry surface. A third place finish in the
fourth heat locked Larson into the night’s 35 lap headline event. With several slower
qualifiers taking advantage of front row starts in the heat races and advancing to the
dash that grids the first five rows of the main event, Larson found himself starting 15th.
Starting position didn’t prove to be a deterrent to Larson once the green flag waved
on the first winged 410 feature in California in 2011. By lap 12 Larson had moved into the
top ten and began a spirited battle with defending WoO champion Jason Meyers that lasted
several laps. After both got by Rose to move into eighth and ninth by lap 20 the pair
scooted by Jac Haudenschild to each advance
one more position closer to the front.
Finally, on lap 24 Larson fought his way past the first ever Californian to win the WoO
title. Larson, who already has an ASCS National and two midget wins in four previous
starts in 2011, quickly pulled away from Meyers and began to close on sixth running Sammy
Swindell. The momentum was halted on lap 26 when Larson’s teammate Brent Kaeding
turned over in turn one.
After being stopped for several seconds with the rest of the pack as Kaeding was tended
to, Larson’s right rear tire became the cushion Rose found to immobilize his car.
When the field pushed off it was obvious Larson would be headed pitside for new rubber.
Larson restarted 17th and settled for 16th at the finish as Craig Dollansky led every lap
for the win.
“I couldn’t believe it when it happened,” Larson  explained
after the race. “I know it was probably something that couldn’t be avoided, but
it was the last thing I expected. We were fast all night and I was really hoping for a top
five finish. My guys, Clark Riolo and Matt Britt, had the car set up just right for the
slick conditions out there. We’re looking to get back on track next weekend with the
races at two of my favorite places, Hanford and Tulare. I’ve won the last two races
at Hanford and a third would be a nice way to rebound from tonight.”
MAJ1K Motorsports send their deepest prayers and condolences for the people of Japan as
well as other people affected by this tragedy. Even the smallest of donations will help
make a difference, please take the time to donate. Click
here for information regarding donations. Thank you.
Larson’s racing efforts are sponsored by Stadelhofer Construction, Peppermill ~
Resort ~ Spa Casino ~ Reno, ButlerBuilt Professional Seat Systems, Simpson Race Products,
Abreu Vineyards, JW Web Design, Kaeding Performance, Safety Solutions and All Star
Performance.
Race: March 12, 2011
Photos Courtesy of Steve Racing Photos
www.stevesracingphotos.com
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