8/5/2018
Joel Rayborne
Santa Maria August 4, 2018
Round #4 of the Amsoil USAC/CRA sprint car series was held at the famed Santa Maria Speedway in beautiful Santa Maria CA. Known as one of the raciest tracks around last Saturday night did not disappoint. Eager to get behind the wheel of the 12B Jim Blakesly Racing sprint car and try the new found power thanks to Shaver Specialties Racing Engines, Joel buckled in and turned a couple of hot laps. Not exactly happy with the car the team took the advice of the experienced and knowledgeable Tom Sertich and left the car alone and gave Joel the chance to drive it harder and different line. When qualifying was done Joel was 14th fast and did a great job giving his all.
The heat race was less than favorable for Joel as he battled for the 7th position the car in front of him lost a right front wheel giving Joel nowhere to go which sent Joel flipping on the front straight and ending his heat race.
Not be left the team and many helpers worked hard and got the car back ready for the A-Main event, and a heck of an event it was. Starting 14th on the grid Joel made his way forward methodically and carefully with some great driving and avoiding some scary situations. Working his way up to 7th at one point near half way Joel found himself in a battle with 6 time champion and current points leader Damion Gardner which was a great learning opportunity. After some more hard racing when the checkered flag flew Joel was credited with an 11th place finish. His highest to date and one of his hardest earned this year. With the championship points tallied, Joel and team are 14th in points and the current leaders of the 2018 USAC/CRA Rookie of the Year title.
Everyone at Jim Blakesley Racing and Joel Rayborne Racing would like to give a big thank you to Tim McGrath for helping in the pits. A huge thank you to Tom Sertich of Moose Racing for stepping in with advice both driver and set-up, this really elevated Joel’s game Saturday night and into the future.
The team is back in action at Perris Auto Speedway on August 18th, 2018 for the USAC/CRA California Racers Hall of Fame Night. Bring your family and friends and come check out some of the fastest open wheel racers on America’s Premiere Dirt Track, the PAS.
Stay till the end of the show and head on down to the pit area afterwards, free of charge, and stop by the Jim Blakesley Racing 12B pit to pick up a signed autograph hero card, stickers, and meet driver Joel Rayborne.
Submitted By: Rodney Rayborne
