HAGERSVILLE, ON (June 16, 2018)- Andrew Ranger rocketed the #27 Mopar Parts Dodge to the pole position at the second event of the NASCAR Pinty’s Series year this past Saturday at Jukasa Motor Speedway near Hamilton, ON. Ranger would remain near the front of the field for much of the evening however a tire puncture late in the event would limit him to a fifth place finish in the race.
From the opening laps of afternoon practice the #27 Mopar Parts Dodge was quick and even a slight brush with the outside wall during the afternoon laps would prevent him from claiming the pole position. “Fantastic” was how Ranger described the car following his quick lap in qualifying.
When the green flag waved for the 300 lap event Ranger held the #27 Mopar Parts Dodge at the front of the field for the first 11 laps before receding somewhat. A competition caution at lap 76 slowed the field and Ranger stopped along pit road for fuel and fresh left side tires.
As the race returned to green flag conditions Ranger was on the charge in the #27 Mopar Parts Dodge and working his way back toward the front of the field. A second competition caution had the driver return for fresh right side rubber and some handling adjustments.
Once again the #27 Mopar Parts Dodge with was moving forward with Ranger at the wheel using his skills and at times running a high racing line where others were unable to have success. Unfortunately as the battle for position heated up in the late stages, Ranger rubbed fenders with other competitors with the right rear tire suffering damage forcing him to make an additional pit stop and taking him out of contention for the victory.
Despite the setback Ranger was still able to collect a fifth place finish and while pleased with a positive result couldn’t help but be a little disappointed.
“The whole Mopar team did a great job, for the first time out in this car to get the pole is great. We were hoping to be good on the long runs but had a little bit of bad luck there at the end or we could have had a better finish, but it’s a good result for the team”.
The #27 Mopar Parts Dodge team will be back in action next at the Autodrome Chaudière in Vallee Jonction, Quebec on Saturday June 30th.
The race from Jukasa Motor Speedway will be broadcast on TSN Saturday June 23rdat 2PM ET.
Race fans can get more information and follow the #27 Mopar Parts Dodge team news during the off-season by going to www.mopar.caand clicking on Motorsports.
Prepared by, TL Sports & Entertainment, todd@tlsportsent.com(239) 961-2618
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