Matchett Wins in Miramichi (AOW)

Series Release/Photo by Bob Prosser

On a day where it looked like Fredericton driver, Robert Miner, would get his first Atlantic Open Wheel Modified Tour victory, it was not to be. He would be denied by the Hometown favourite, Doug Matchett.

It was the Atlantic Open Wheel Modified Tour’s first event in 5 weeks and drivers were anxious to go back racing.

Miner started out the afternoon by winning the heat race. Miner got to the front past leader Brandon Skidmore and ran away from the field in the 10 lap heat. He came to the front again in the 12 lap Semi and won that. He was looking to close out the evening with a feature win in the 30 lap event.

When it came time for the 30 lap event, Springhill, NS rookie, Brandon Skidmore started on the point along with Robert Miner. Race winner Doug Matchett started in the 3^rd spot and quickly went to the front of the pack. Miner followed through to 2^nd before a multi car spin down in T1 brought out the only yellow of the feature. Defending Champ Mike Raeburn broke a tie rod end in the incident and was unable to get back out.

On the restart, Miner looked like he would pull away from Matchett like he did all night, except a missed shift left the Investors Group Chevy back in the pack momentarily. The race went green the rest of the way and Miner was close to taking the lead, but was unable to do so as Matchett took the checkers.

And yes, the Miramichi crowd went nuts seeing the 75 in victory lane.

Cody Price picked up another podium finish after fighting a tight race car all afternoon long. The Nackawic, NB driver is a threat this season to pick up a victory before all is said and done.

2011 Champion Joe Hoyt fought a loose Modified all afternoon, and wasn’t able to put the car on the podium.

The next event is on Saturday, August 24 at Petty International Raceway as part of the 49^th annual International Weekend.

RESULTS:

1. 75- Doug Matchett
2. 48- Robert Miner-
3. 81- Cody Price-
4. 17- Joe Hoyt
5. 4- Brandon Skidmore
6. 98- Mike Raeburn
7. 15- Mark McCully