March 21st, 2009 - Anderson Speedway
Our first open practice was at Anderson Speedway on Saturday, March 21st.
This was Mike Larrison's first run in the car and the team's debut on an open wheel oval. Mike ran well despite running on worn tires which eventually led to a punctured rear tire at the end of the day. Mike was able to get the feel of the car and the track and by the end of the day we were informed that he ran just .2 seconds short of the pole position recorded last season.
This was also our mechanic Scott Albrecht's debut with the team. Scott did an awesome job this weekend and all were impressed with his enthusiasm and quick skill in working with the car. Special thanks also needs to go out to Mike Hurst for his much needed advice and experience.
We at American Dream Racing are excited to get the 2009 season under way. Weather permitting, our last open practice before the racing season begins will be on the 1/2 mile oval at the Illiana Motor Speedway in Schererville, IN.
The first race of the season will be a night race at Columbus Motor Speedway, Columbus, OH on April 4th.
Photos of Saturday's practice can be seen ... HERE
March 27th, 2009 - Anderson Speedway
Second Open Practice
Mike's second open practice was at Anderson Speedway on Friday, 03/27/09. Despite the threat of rain and cool temps the afternoon's practice session went very well. A few national teams had arrived earlier in the day and we were able to run with some of the best.
We ran new tires and were able to set the car up better than last weekend. Mike's feel for the set up & the track improved every lap and we were able to run in and through traffic while getting a better handle on our race set ups. The car was fast and handled much better with the new tires.
Besides being excited with how well we ran, the high point of the day was being able to share the track with Bobby East.
Photos of Friday's practice can be seen ... HERE