Rick Ware Racing
Brown wins opener at Bowman
Tim Brown, a Cana, V.A. native, piloted his No. 83 Hayes Jewelers modified to victory lane after winning the Tucson 200 at the Bowman Gray Stadium season opener on Saturday.
The season opener scheduled for April 24th was postponed to this past Saturday, May 1st, due to a rain out. Qualifying for the Tucson 200 was held Friday, April 23rd; thirty drivers qualified for only 24 positions. Brown landed the pole position after traveling the quarter mile oval at a speed of 68.5 miles per hour in 13.149 seconds. This was the fastest qualifying time since Brown set the record two years ago with a time of 12.96 seconds, the fastest time ever posted at Bowman Gray Stadium.
Over 20,000 people were on their feet to greet the starting line up for the Tucson 200. As the green flag dropped, the eight time and defending champion, Tim Brown, quickly took the lead. After several “Madhouse” scrambles called for cautions, the field lined up double file and Brown continued to make his way out front and keep it there.
As the field came to the green flag after a late race incident, Burt Myers was battling for position when he got into the back of Brown going into turn 3. After a very impressive save, Brown quickly recovered from what could have potentially ended their night, and only fell to second position when Lee Jeffreys was able to slide past him. However, the caution flag quickly flew once again, giving Brown the chance to line up on the outside of Jeffreys on the front row for the restart. As the green flag was displayed on lap 146, Spotter Mike Jones quickly helped Brown to reclaim the lead.
“The Rocket” gained on the field as the laps passed by and on lap 200 he crossed the checkered flag in first position, earning his first victory of the 2010 season.
“I am so proud of my race team for preparing an awesome race car for the start of the 2010 season. We are trying to set a record of nine championships at Bowman Gray Stadium. I am thankful to all my sponsors and fans, and appreciate all of their support.” Brown stated.
Only one race into the 16 week race schedule, Brown has claimed the lead in the championship point standings by two points over Lee Jeffreys.
Older brother, Ben Brown, started 21st in the first Stadium Stock division race after a draw for positions. After avoiding several wrecks, he rallied his No. 84 Gwyn Electrical Plumbing, Heating, and Air Ford to a 10th place finish.
It’s true; you never know what will happen at the “Madhouse”! Don’t miss next week’s Bill Plemmons RV World 100 as Brown attempts his second win of the season!
