Our return to Cajon Speedway was postponed due to the September 11th tragedy.  Our prayers are with the families affected by this terrible attack on our Great Nation.   We Americans will overcome these tragic events of September 11th, as we have before, and be stronger because of it. 

The next race on our schedule for September 22 was the Barona Speedway 1/4 mile dirt track.  For qualifying, pills are drawn.  We were lucky to get a low number, putting us in the 4th starting spot for the 8 car heat race.   The heat race started well, jumping from 4th to 2nd in the first turn and allowing me a chance to run down number 1 qualifier Dave Doll (#62), who was out to a large lead.   The car was running well, gaining some ground over the next 5 laps, but it wasn't to last.  The caution came out due to a car spinning in turn 2, and on the restart our engine blew up unexpectedly.  I had thought we were some what lucky to save the engine from the earlier crash at Cajon Speedway, but subsequent problems finally claimed it as well.  When the going gets tough, the tough go find a new engine.  We had a line on the next powerplant before the evening was over.  We would miss yet another race, the September 29th event at Irwindale, but were able to get the car ready for a return visit to Barona Speedway on October 13th.  I decided that this would be our last event run this year.

The race at Barona Speedway on October 13th proved to be one we would finish, with the car in good shape.  My pill draw for a starting spot was not a good one, taking the high number this time.  The Legends Car turnout was good for a dirt race, with 12 cars, all from the SCLA contingent.  I started in the 6th (last) spot on the grid of the second heat.  I was able to pick up 2 positions during the 8 lap heat race, finishing in the 4th spot, and securing the 8th spot on the grid for the 12 car main event.  The main was eventful, swapping some paint with Ryan Shug (# 134) in the opening laps, but able to work my way up to 5th place and eventually  finish 6th for the 20 lap race.  This was a tough year all round, and I was glad to finish in one piece.  We will be in good shape for the 2002 season, having a fresh car and gaining some invaluable experience this year.  For now, we will enjoy the off-season and the Holidays, looking forward to next season.

We at GRAHAM Motorsports are proud to announce the acceptance of the FEED THE CHILDREN organization to allow us to help promote awareness in their fight against hunger for needy children around the world. As well as displaying their logo on our car, we have also chosen to sponsor a child through their wonderful organization. Please visit their website at http://www.feedthechildren.com to see about helping to relieve the suffering of very needy children.

Best wishes to all, and see you at the races.

Sincerely,