SES: Lanier: Wakely MotorSports race notes

Braselton, GA -- 7/2/04 Rain postponed the Firecracker 150 sponsored by Great Clips at Lanier National Speedway until Friday the 2nd, but not much could slow down the Wakely MotorSports Pennzoil Chevrolet at the 3/8th's mile facility. After two superspeedway events, Michael was ready to get back to his short track roots. "Lanier is really a "drivers" track," said Faulk. "Getting your car to turn and getting it hooked up is the most important thing at a track like this." No one knew this better than Crew Chief and NASCAR Modified legend Buzzie Ruetimann. He used his years of experience and extensive notes to dial-in the Pennzoil Chevrolet. "Buzzie and the crew have done a great job on the car. It's really getting into and through the middle of the turns great," Faulk said. Unfortunately, Mother Nature wasn't shining on Michael as he went out for qualifying. The rain started falling just as Michael went out to take time. "I was sure they (NASCAR) would throw the red and postpone qualifying, but no one did anything so I just had to do the best I could" said Faulk. "It was definitely wet, but I had no choice." Due to track conditions, Faulk qualified in the 15th spot. The rain eventually subsided long enough to finish qualifying, but then set in for the rest of the evening, holding the event over until the next day.

The condition of the track was questionable Friday, after rain the preceding day and night. "We set the car up to start out a little loose. This track usually tightens up a bit as the night goes on," said Ruetimann. After a first lap caution, Michael began his usual march to the front, working his way through the pack using both the inside and outside groove. By the time the 2nd caution came on lap 75, Michael was in 6th position. As the race continued, the #00 Pennzoil Chevrolet had some exciting side-by-side racing with other drivers. Mike battled extremely heavy traffic all night, yet amazingly emerged unscathed in sixth spot. "Lapped cars really hurt us tonight. I used a lot of rubber getting to the front and got held up by slower cars," said Michael. "It was still a good run for us. It was the most fun I have had racing all year. It's a great track. I'd love to come back."

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