LONDON, ON - Brad Graham and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts car hit the track for the first event of the 2005 CASCAR Super Series at Delaware Speedway this weekend, the Mopar 250.
This season Graham made the switch to a Mopar-powered Dodge Charger and were anxious to begin learning more about their new ride. “It’s been good in the little bit of testing we did, but there’s nothing like race experience” said the driver. Things looked promising when Graham was able to turn the eighth quickest lap in the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto parts Dodge on Saturday afternoon
As noted however there is nothing like race conditions to throw things at you. Graham was sitting comfortably in the top ten when he began to experience radio problems. Communication is essential for the spotter to help the driver around the track. While Brad did a solid job staying up front through the gremlins, on lap 98 he began to experience a vibration he knew was trouble.
With no choice he made the pit on lap 101 the team caught a break as they diagnosed the problem as broken wheel studs. A yellow flag came out on lap 102 and the team was able to make the repairs and only lose 10 laps. “That was great work by the team” explained the driver. “They knew exactly what to do and handled it well, I’m really proud of them.
While a top finish was taken from them the Graham returned to ½ mile oval to turn laps, pick up some points, and gain as much knowledge about the new Mopar powered Charger as possible.
Brad put together some impressive lap times in the closing stages and was classified 21st at the end of a long afternoon. “The car felt really good after we came back” explained Graham. I think we’ve got a much better handle on how to set the car up and I’m really looking forward getting back on track at St. Eustache. In two weeks”.
This release prepared by Todd Lewis, TL Sports & Entertainment
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