Coos Bay, OR (6/22/2020)
While the jump to the Super Late Model class has had its fair share of early difficulties, Saturday night had to be an encouraging sign for Braden Fugate and the entirety of the Fugate Racing team.
2 of Fugate’s first 3 starts had ended with a DNF, so Saturday night’s 3rd place finish definitely felt like the team’s most complete Super Late performance to date. Even with the team’s occasional early struggles, Braden has shown the poise and persistence of a veteran racer, putting his team in as best position to succeed as possible.
Fugate started off the night with a strong run in the heat race. After starting 5th, Braden quickly passed Nathan Augustine for 4th, before settling in behind Rob Campos. After shadowing Campos lap after lap, Fugate finally made his move on the last lap to steal 3rd at the line.
Unfortunately for Fugate, the invert did him no favors, as he’d line up 9th on the starting grid. Within three laps, Fugate found himself knocking on the door of the Top 5.
For the next 17 circuits, Fugate continued to run 6th, before problems for a fellow racer helped him gain 2 spots to grab 4th. Lying just ahead in 3rd was defending Madras champ Jason Johnson, who managed to keep Fugate at bay lap after lap, regardless of Fugate’s numerous attempts.
With just 2 laps remaining, Fugate wrestled 3rd away from Johnson, going on to finish 3rd to improve on his previous career best finish of 4th.
When asked about his night, Fugate said: “We had a pretty solid night last night! We started in the back of both the heat race and main and were able to move forward in both which was huge for me! We are making steps in the right direction. Just super thankful to be able to be back at the track and get some more laps under my belt in that car! Overall it was a great night!”
Braden would like to thank all of his sponsors and supporters who make this possible, including:
Mike Redmon
Ken Ware Chevrolet Buick Cadillac GMC
Canaday Coffee
Troubles Construction LLC
Outdoor Living and Rental Center- Bandon, Oregon
Coos Curry Supply – Port Orford, Oregon
Napier Auto Body
API Coatings
WSK Machine – Jim Diemert Racing Engines
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