Drove up with Jim for another great evening of racing up at Ault Park. D. Hall was there in my race and that made a world of difference.

I had reviewed the overall standings and realize that, with some luck, I could move up a few places and possibly take home some money. Short money mind you, with $15 on offer for 5th overall. Nevertheless, worth killing myself for. I was feeling pretty good and wanted to make my points early. I got a nice lead out from D. Hall on the first sprint, he dropped me off just out of sight from the officials and ripped it up to take first. 5 points in the bag and a good start. Next was the double points sprint, and I thought if I could nail that, I'd be in good shape. D. Hall has something planned for that lap, so I was on my own. Nearing the bottom of the hill, I was in good position. A guy from 7 Hills started to go, and I heard someone yelling "go, go" behind me. I went hard, and passed the 7 Hills easily, taking the sprint with a large margin. Too bad it was one lap early! That effort gassed me for the actual sprint and my plan was unraveling. Another leadout and I managed fourth in the third sprint and was feeling pretty cooked afterward. I tried to call it a night, but D. Hall wouldn't let me, making sure I grabbed his wheel for the last bit. The sprint started fairly early and I gave it everything I had left, but was pipped on the line and ended up 5th.

So, after the slight error, I ended up 5th on the night and 7th overall. Maybe next year I'll learn to count.

D. Hall, I owe you big time for the three leadouts. Next week, I'm at your service in the 3/4's race.