LAKE HAVASU CITY, ARIZONA- Although his first ever appearance with the Lucas Oil Modified Series may not have gone entirely according to plan, rookie Blaine Perkins is content with what he learned at Havasu 95 Speedway.
The 15-year old freshman impressed in only his second career Open Wheel Modified start, qualifying for the E3 Spark Plugs Arizone 100 presented by Geico through the B Main before working quickly to drive his way through the talent-laden field.
“My guys gave me an absolute rocket ship today, I can’t thank them enough,” smiled Perkins post-race. “This car was a lot better than I showed in time trials, it was a huge relief to race it into the show in the Last Chance Qualifier”
Perkins raced his way to 15th spot before being caught in a chain-reaction crash that sent his Four Star Fruit/Campbell Motorsports No. 55 to the pits for repairs on lap-70.
“That was a little disappointing,” said Perkins. “I felt as though I was really beginning to develop a rhythm, and our car was starting to come alive when we got caught up in that wreck”
“I think that’s just the product of this style of racing on a quarter mile,” continued the personable teenager. “There’s so little room for error out here, and everyone’s cars are so equal. There’s not much we could have done to avoid the incident, I just feel terrible for my team”
Despite the damage incurred, Perkin’s Highpoint Racing entry still managed to finish the event in the 21st position.
“After how badly we hurt the front end, just crossing the finish line was a small victory for us,” offered Perkins. “This race was all about learning for us. I feel as though every time I strap into this car, I’m a little bit better, and that’s the goal for the rest of the season”
“At this point, I’m back to counting the minutes before I’m able to hit the track again. All I can think about is my next start and having the opportunity to apply all that I learned today.”
Perkins and the Highpoint Racing team will not have to wait long, as they return to competition this Saturday, March 21st at LoanMart Madera Speedway for Race 1 in the $1,000-to-win Twisted Tea Open Modified Series.
Details, including gate times and ticket prices, can be found at www.RaceMadera.com.
Blaine Perkins’ busy 2015 season is made possible thanks to the support of Four Star Fruit, Campbell Motorsports, Hronis Racing, Mentom Eyewear, Vine Ripe Sales, M&S Produce, E Fruit, Double Eagle Produce & Transportation and Reeves Auto Cars.
Fans can stay up to date with Blaine by visiting the official Blaine Perkins Racing page on Facebook or by following on Twitter @BlainePerkins21.
By Spencer Lewis (@itsspencerlewis)
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