Chris Raabe and the 01 racing team have picked up where they left off at the conclusion of the 2008 season. They have not missed a beat a beat since returning to action just 3 weeks ago.
In 4 races since the green flag has waived on the 2009 season, Raabe has put his Scott Industrial Services, Kingston RV, Tyroute Telus, Corcoran Excavating, McColman Media, Kwik Load Products, Canadian Tire Cataraqui, Kingston Hyundai, Word for the World Ministries, Aaron’s Sales & Leasing, Endura Paints, Brunet Plumbing, Waste Management and Finish Line Web Design sponsored TEO car in victory lane 2 times, both at the Can-Am Speedway in Lafargeville, NY.
Even though the stellar winning streak has continued, the competition has definitely stepped up their racing programs over the off season. The quality, and quantity of cars has been tremendous for the DIRTcar Sportsman class. 42 cars signed into the pit area last Saturday night at Can-Am, followed by 27 the following night at Thunder Alley.
At Can-Am, on Saturday evening, Chris took the lead early, and pulled away, opening up a 3 second lead by lap 11. Tim Sears Jr. and Jordan Bennett were making there way through the field, and were closing quickly after another 3 laps of green flag racing. The ensuing caution brought the Sears car right on the back bumper of the 01 car, and it was “game on” for the remainder of the event. On the final lap, Sears drove his car into the corner deep, roughing up the 01 car, but it wasn’t enough, as Raabe held onto the inside groove and the win.
The following night, the team headed to the Thunder Alley Speed Park, just up the road from Can-Am. A bad draw put the team in the back of their qualifying heat race, but Chris quickly moved towards the front, and finished 3rd. With the heads up start format in place, the feature event was lined up based on the finish of each of the 3 qualifying heats. Chris started the feature from the 9th position, and quickly worked his way towards the front of the field. With 12 laps to go, Chris was up to second place, looking to pass race leader Brandon Sweet. Chris went up high to mount his challenge, at the same time, a lapped car moved up as well, holding the 01 car up just enough to allow third place runner Jordan Bennett just enough room to get under Raabe, and make the pass for second, and that is how the race ended.
This coming weekend will be the first triple-header of the season. Can-Am on Friday evening, followed by Thunder Alley on Saturday, and then the team heads to Rolling Wheels Raceway, to begin their defense of the track championship at the fast Elbridge, New York track.
“The team started to get the 01 car to get a handle at Rolling Wheels by the end of last year, winning the track title”, says car owner Garry McColman. “However, the team has yet to win at the big 5/8’s mile track. This weekend will be a challenge as always at “the Wheels”. Chris likes the track as speeds hit just over 110 mph but with the crate motor, it is imperative to get a good starting position in the feature.”
The team will be unveiling its 2009 merchandise in the coming weeks. It will be available at the track each week, as well as chrisraabe.com.
PHOTO: Car Owner Garry McColman, and Chris Raabe show off their new Aaron’s sponsorship.
Craig Revelle – Finish Line Web Design
