We are down to the final Fast Friday of the 2017 season, which is slated for next week. But last night, we saw some wild action on the track, including a crash in the first race of the night. The Bandolero Bandits took to the track and RJ Marcotte went flipping down the frontstretch. Luckily, since the cars are safe, Marcotte was able to get out and walk away without injury. In the feature, Ryan Arieta returned to Everett’s Auto Parts Victory Lane.
The Bandolero Outlaws followed them and it was Evan Marchand using a last lap pass to take down his third victory of the season. Behind the wheel of the No. 15, Marchand waited in second spot for much of the second half of the race. He was hoping the opportunity would come for him to make a move — and it did. A slide underneath leader Zach Martinez coming around the fourth corner as the white flag went up in the air saw Marchand get the advantage. The former SYRA champion won’t be hoisting a title this year, but three wins is a stellar accomplishment.
The Sport 4 feature went off smoothly, as it has the last few weeks. This time, it was AJ Manuel picking up the victory and helping his cause in the championship chase. Manuel found himself at the front of the pack early in the race and was clearly the dominate car behind the wheel of his No. 88. Manuel is the Phil’s Propane Triple Crown Series champion for 2017, but he will be looking to take the driver’s championship next week. He is trailing David Westgate headed for the finale.
In the Minicups, Michael Cooper captured his first career win. As always, it was great to see another first-time winner roll into Everett’s Auto Parts Victory Lane with pure emotion flowing. Cooper held off some late challenges and was able to take down a victory out of what has been a rough season.
The 25 lap Pure Stock feature saw Lenny Sousa in control for much of the early stages. Behind the wheel of his No. 31, Sousa held the point for much of the race, but couldn’t hold off a late charge by Colby Lambert. While using the outside lane, Lambert passed Sousa and drove away back into Victory Lane for the fifth time this season. Lambert also clinched the 2017 Pure Stock championship with the win. He will be celebrating at the head table come November.
The Nick’s Pit Stop Legends Cars feature came right down to the wire, but it was “Batman” Brandon Martinez returning to the winner’s circle. Martinez has definitely been at the top of the pack all season long when it comes to the fastest car on the track. He held off a close challenge from “The Mop” in the final circuits to take down the win. Joe Marfeo finished top five and will just need to finish the race next week in order to clinch the title.
Just one Fast Friday remains in 2017. Please join us next week! We will crown the driver’s champions and the 2017 Phil’s Propane Triple Crown champions as well!
FAST FRIDAY RECAP
WITH KYLE SOUZA
SEPT 15TH, 2017