Relishing the opportunity to compete under clear skies, several drivers descended on Fairgrounds Speedway, May 30-31, for two nights of exciting racing action.

By the time the dust finally settled, a few drivers were elated, many were content and one or two were downright disappointed.

Regardless of their emotions, each driver departed Fairgrounds Speedway prepared to dedicate time to repairing, rebuilding and tuning their machines.

Several drivers perform well

While many drivers who have enjoyed success at Fairgrounds Speedway, few have dominated like Farmington-based driver Shane Devilbiss.

Driving his distinct “pink panther” car, Devilbiss captured top honors in the Modified Class on May 30 and May 31.

Also capturing top honors on both nights were Hobby Stock driver Freddie Brooks and Stock Car driver Kenny Hendershot.

Hedershot’s victory on May 30 was especially exciting as the Bloomfield based driver just edged Steffan Carey for the victory.

Other victorious drivers included Sport-Mod drivers Jordan Eddleman and Brian Carey, who captured top honors on May 30 and May 31 respectively.

Ra Nai Toler and Travis Brey, who captured top honors in the Sport Compact class.

While local drivers Aaron Spangler, Rob Petrose and Shelly Griffin all registered at least one top-three finish, other talented homegrown drivers were derailed by car trouble.

Chief among those was Brooklyn Kibel, who, for the fourth consecutive week, struggled with car problems as flames erupted from under her car during a heat race.

“The first race out, my driveline fell out,” explained Kibel. “The next race, my water pump shredded and it tore apart my radiator. Last week, my transmission blew up.”

Also struggling was Dove Creek driver Billy Beanland, who, piloting a recently purchased Sport-Mod, drove well, but struggled to find straight-line speed.

“We’ve worked until midnight every night this week,” said Beanland. “We had to put a motor in it and completely go through every nut and bolt.”

Audience enjoys experience

As always, non-stop action, hard wrecks and thrilling finishes produced a memorable experience for those attending the events.

“It’s a lot better than sitting at home watching a movie,” said Dove Creek driver Brodie Spangler of the races.

“You get to see a lot of good side by side racing.”

Races will next take place at Fairgrounds Speedway at dusk on June 20 and June 21.

imaclaren@cortezjournal.com