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Well the Putnam Park CES event is in the record books. While the turnout was not huge it was substantial and has to be considered a successful event. It seems that it rained everywhere around the racetrack but weather (other than hot & sticky) had no impact on the program. I have often wondered why Putnam doesn't draw even better than it does. Putnam Park is a first class facility with a very smooth surface other then that infernal dip on the exit of turn nine. The nature of the track layout creates some superb racing with pure NASCAR style drafting being the norm. A beautiful park like setting with good facilities should make this one of the more popular venues available. The only criticism that I heard that has any merit is the lack of onsite camping and the early gate closing times but that is up to track management and can be lived with easily.
There was lots of talk in the paddock about trying to get all of the clubs and series' to work together for the common good. I applaud any attempts to get all mid-western road racers on the same page. There seemed to be some type of power struggle going on between race and series officials although it was not readily apparent what it was about. I hope that some of the powers that be realize that this is not about power but about the good of the future growth of the sport. Working together = good, power struggles = bad.
On a lighter note there were some of the most exciting races over the weekend that I have witnessed in some time. Again using the NASCAR analogy the lead was usually not the place to be on the last lap. The leader at the white flag was often demoted to third or fourth in the last two turns of several races. Wasn't it great to see Earl Clements smile from the flag stand? All in all, the race weekend went off very well. And for those that want another chance at conquering the Putnam Park Road Course, remember that there will be another event held there in August put on jointly by Mid Ohio's Dart Kart group and the SKUSA Great Lakes Regional series.
Congratulations to all that did well this past weekend and to those like me that didn't have everything go their way remember, "The Race Is Never Over!"
Until next time race hard, race safe.
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