Tim Russell and his Insurance Offices of America team loaded up and headed to Desoto Super Speedway in Bradenton, Florida, this past weekend for Seafest 2009. Russell had a fast car as soon as he hit the asphalt and was ready to claim another 2009 victory, but a parts failure ended his chances at entering victory lane.
The event started promising as Russell put his #36 Chevrolet on top of the speed charts.
“We had a really good car right off the trailer,” explained Russell. “My guys gave me an awesome Insurance Offices of America car. It was really fast out there on Friday night and set the fast time.”
After starting sixth following the post-qualifying inversion, Russell quickly made his way up to third on lap six and found a comfortable spot. With the leader in his sights, he formulated a game plan for the rest of the event.
“We were biding our time sitting there in third, just logging laps and we were going to concentrate on trying to take the lead in a few laps.”
Unfortunately a surprise headed Russell’s way when a mechanical failure sent him into the wall.
“On about lap 12, down the back straightaway, we had a part malfunction,” said Russell. “The rear end tube actually snapped in half, which is something I’ve never seen happen in my life, and the car turned around and hit the wall.”
Russell and his team displayed the true racer’s spirit as they didn’t let their misfortune dampen their spirits as they look forward to their next outing.
“It was just a freak part accident,” shrugged Russell. “I’ve never seen it happen before, like I said. But we’ll be back next time and be faster.”
Russell and his Insurance Offices of America #36 will hit the track next for the 100 lap feature event at Orlando Speedworld (FL) on Friday, October 23rd.
