PEVELY, Mo. (Aug. 5, 2015)- As the ‘Month of Money’ winds down, attention turns to one of the most grueling races on the tour, the Ironman, at Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55.
Friday, Aug. 7 is the Monroe Shocks and Struts Prelude to the Ironman and Saturday is the Federated Auto Parts Ironman 55, a 55-lap A Main around a high-banked 1/3-mile dirt track.
Joey Saldana, driver of the Motter Equipment HE&M Saw Beltline Body Shop 71M is a three-time winner at this track and drove to victory lane in the Ironman in 2009.
“I am a big fan of this race,” said Saldana. “But it’s a long race and it’s demanding. Heat is another factor. If it’s hot out, that adds another degree of intensity and can realIy drain a drive. But I like the challenge.
“I’m happy I’ve won it before and I’m looking forward to putting my name on that trophy twice. “
The motors on the World of Outlaws circuit have been virtually silent for nearly a week as rain caused cancellation of two Canadian events last weekend. On Friday, July 31, qualifying was completed before storms moved in.
When motors roar back to life in Pevely, teams and drivers will return to their adrenalin-fueled lifestyle and will be gunning for the Ironman bragging rights.
The last two years during Ironman competition have yielded top 10 finishes for the Motter team.
“We’re aiming for victory circle this year,” said an enthusiastic Dan Motter, team owner.
Sunday evening the Motter team is planning to participate in the Capitani Classic at Knoxville Raceway. It will be the last time teams will have an opportunity to tune up for the Knoxville Nationals.
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