Sometimes it all just comes together, and that’s what happened at Autoclub Speedway in early March.  The pros might be racing in Fontana later this month, but they are not likely to match the fun had by 944 Spec drivers this past weekend.  The weekend started out well, with 18 entries from as far away as the Midwest Region lined up in their garages and ready to race.

Saturday morning was so windy you could feel the wind pushing against your car on the front straight, yet times were still very competitive.  By race time the wind had died down, and the large class was lined up and ready to take the green flag.  The battles throughout the race were competitive.  By the last lap, it was Tyler Palmer, last year’s National champion, in first, Norm Hamden, visiting from Arizona region, in second, Eric Kuhns, National 944 Spec director, in third, and Everett DeLano, SoCal’s own 944 Spec Series Director, in fourth place.  As they approached turn 3, the sharp left hander at the end of the banked oval, both Norm and Eric went into it too hot.  Eric spun out and Everett slipped into third place.  Everett gave Norm a good run for his money and the two were in a tight race to the finish line, with Tyler finishing in first, Norm in second, and Everett in third.  That night the bench racing was fierce and fun.

Sunday’s weather was warmer and expectations were high for another good day of racing.  In practice, Tyler ran a lap time just over 2:00, very fast at this track.  At race time, the top four qualifiers decided to add a little spice to the race, starting in the back of the pack.  Once again, the battles on the track were fierce as those qualifiers made their way through the group of outstanding drivers.  There was considerable passing and re-passing as the cars jockeyed for position throughout the event.  At the checkered flag, it was Tyler in first, Norm in second, and Eric in third place.  As the drivers packed up and headed on their ways, it was clear this had been one spectacular weekend and plans were already being made for more great racing in the months ahead.