By BOB LIBBEY, Lakeside Speedway
Gene Claxton made the most of a consistent line and Mother Nature to win the McCarthy Auto Opening Night USRA B-Mod feature.
Claxton, who started inside row three, needed only a handful of laps before taking the lead of the rain shortened event. Richard Layne and Jake Richards who battled most of the race side by side finished second and third, respectfully. Frank Littrell and Mike Higley rounded out the top five.
Kansas City, Kan.’s, Joe Smith, Jr, did exactly what he did opening night last year - held off the entire field to register the first win of the season in the Factory Stock division. This is not to say he didn’t have to earn it, as Bret Heeter and Tom Fogerty gave chase throughout the entire race.
It was at this point that torrential rains hit Lakeside Speedway, forcing an abrupt end to the planned events. For this reason, the Grand National feature and the USRA A-Mod feature will be made up at a later date.
“Racing on the rivers edge” continues every Friday night through October with the USRA A-Modifieds, Grand Nationals, USRA B-Modifieds and Factory Stocks. Gates open at 5 p.m., hot laps at 6:45 p.m., and the first race gets under way at 7:30 p.m.
Adult ticket prices are $12.00, kids 7-12 $6, and children six and younger admitted free. Senior citizens and military personnel with ID are admitted for $10.
For more information on special events or ticket information call the Lakeside Speedway office at (913) 299-9206 or visit our official website at www.lakesidespeedway.net.
