by Patricia Miller for GLADA

Hazel Park, MI — On a steamy May evening, nine Michigan amateur drivers rolled out from the gate, each in pursuit of a win and the points that go with it. Seasoned competitors and new drivers alike were ready, steady, and set to jet as the starter released them. Larry McCarty and his bright charge, Little Ms Sunshine, zipped out of the 3 hole to the lead and set a fast pace to the quarter, 28.3 , followed by R M Shy steered by Mike Caston and the ever competitive Smokin Steven driven by Steve Oldford. As they approached the half, Thrill of Victory, trained and driven by two time winner Mark Jones, was on the move in 4th, followed by Jack Pasko driving S F Fiesta in 5th place.

But Little Ms Sunshine shone on in 59.2 leading the trailers with Benns Legacy driven by Mike Sweeney parked out in 6th place, Hallway to Heaven in rein to Bob Barella in 7th, Asti Asti driven by Mike Golden in 8th place, and Kara Sue Buxton’s Donker Marie could watch them go from ninth.

As the three quarter clock showed 1.29.2 and Sunshine still with the lead, the race tightened as many drivers made their moves to the outside and the top, but the front end looked fast and ready as they entered the stretch. Asti Asti raced up the outside from double parked 9th place into 4th place and R M Shy seemed destined for the place check. As the photo flashed, Little Ms Sunshine finished a wire to wire race with style and won the race and Asti Asti came in second. Smokin Steven was going all out and managed to take home the place dough.

The fun continues and a new mix of amateurs will take to the track on Monday, May 30, Memorial Day.