FMS: Branich Motorsports Spencer report

Leaty wins season opener at Spencer Speedway.

Williamson, NY - Jan Leaty returned to his old stomping grounds at Spencer Speedway to open the 2002 racing season, and took home the winner's trophy in the 30-lap NASCAR Modified season opener. He powered his Wayne Regional Orthopaedics/Heluva Good Foods sponsored Pontiac to his 12th career victory at the ½ mile oval.

Leaty started the main event on the inside of the second row behind pole-sitter Kevin Timmerman. Leaty took the lead for good on lap 6 passing then race leader Buck Catalano. He was able to hold off Catalano and then Tim McMullen on a series of restarts to take to top spot. McMullen finished second, followed by Catalano, Kevin Timmerman, and John DeMinck.

"It was an all around great night for me and our team," said Leaty after the win. "I believe this shows we are prepared for a great season of racing. Thanks to all involved"

Leaty and the rest of the Branich Motorsports modified team will travel to Nazareth (PA) Speedway next weekend for the NASCAR Featherlite Modified Series Service Electric 100.

Branich Notes: Jan's victory was a nice addition to the 22nd wedding anniversary celebration for him and his wife Julieâ^À¦Jan's son Mike was in a modified for the first time in competition at Spencerâ^À¦ Mike carries Jan's old number 25â^À¦Jan's victory was the first for the Branich Motorsports modified effort.

NASCAR Modified Race Results:

Heat 1: Timmerman, J. Leaty, J. DeMinck, D. Catalano, D. Lewis

Heat 2: B. Catalano, T. McMullen, P. Catalano, D. Kluth, C. Finocchario

Feature: J LEATY, McMullen, B. Catalano, Timmerman, DeMinck, Lewis, P. Catalano, Finocchario, Cheetam, D. Catalano, Gregg, Smith, M. Leaty, Kluth, Slattery, DeMarree, Kosachook, Weist, DNS: Mangus

-bm-