Andrew Carlson Departs First TORC Pro Light Race Within Grasp of Points Lead
- Jun 12, 2017
Andrew Carlson finds himself strapped inside a 3000 lb. truck instead of atop a 400 lb. snowmobile. One might think these are completely different disciplines but Andrew left the first TORC Pro Light race of the year just four points out of first place. In all fairness, this was not Andrew’s first truck race. While competing in Snocross in the winter, he competed in select Pro Light events since 2015 and before that side-by-side off-road racing starting in 2012. There was clear promise in Andrew’s abilities as he worked his way up the field as his first season progressed, just missing a podium spot in the penultimate race, and then grabbed a third at the finale.
Saturday’s race wasn’t necessarily the kind of race you write home about. It started well enough, with Andrew setting the second fastest time. The inverted start meant he had to grid in the middle of the field. With a muddy track full of drivers who haven’t competed for months. Andrew had the advantage, as his skills were sharp from having raced Snocross all winter. As he wound his way through the field, an unfortunate bump by a competitor sent Andrew on his roof, triggering a full-course yellow. Andrew then fought his way back up the field to finish fifth, salvaging critical championship points.
Even though an opportunity or two presented itself for Andrew to squeeze past Kyle, Andrew was thinking more of the championship and coming out of the event rather than being a hero for the day (with plenty of risk involved). Andrew took second and was very pleased to be just four points off first at this point in the season. "We couldn't do it without our partners that have supported us from day one," Andrew added. After the race Andrew admitted that he "had a few opportunities to try to put a pass on Kyle, but I didn’t want to throw away a good finish and the championship points on a track where a wreck was a real possibility.”
To which Jesse replied, “our goal for Chicago was to get on the box, verify our set-up, and position the team for a strong showing in rounds three and four at our home track. I’d say it was mission accomplished.” "It's really exciting to kick off the season on a high note," commented Andrew. "We're looking forward to getting the #151 K&N Pro Light on the podium again at our home track, ERX Motor Park, in a few weeks." The TORC Series races on a scenic 1.0 mile course at ERX Motor Park in Elk River, Minnesota. | ||||
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