As close as you would expect the Rookie race started with a crash and bang when both Ford's were determined to put the hurt on Dresser's Acura by hitting every panel on the RSX when the green flag dropped.  That allowed Arndt to scoot through and take the lead but that didn't last for long.  Arndt's rear wheel jammed up after a bump with the wall at the carousel and came to a halt.  Dresser jumped at the chance and took over the lead while Arndt's pit crew pushed him into the paddock for repairs.  The two Ford drivers were in rare form this week and didn't cut each other any slack.  With them trading spots back and forth Dimeler and Grenier kept a fast pace and were 2nd and 3rd at the race's midpoint.  After some time Arndt was back on the track and regained some of the ground he lost to Dresser only to finish second just ahead of Grenier.

 

With this win and pole position point Dresser has taken the lead in the championship proving that this will be a race to the finish.  "Mike is always a formidable opponent.  I hope to keep my lead to the end and it will be a well earned championship."  Said Dresser as he was drenched in champagne.

The Pro Mains were a sight to see with the crowd growing and cheering with each lap.  Yutaka clearly was the one to beat after a remarkable qualifying run, but had a rough time finding his way through the lapped traffic to finish third to his teammates Hester and Romack.  "I am very happy for my teammates.  This is a great week for us, I have secured my lead over Santamarina and Al has put in the best peformance in his career."  Yutaka said before he joined his friends on the podium.

Another remarkable story was Bill Perry.  With a strong qualifying run he found himself in the A Main.  "Racing in the A Main raises my ability to the next level and it really makes it fun."  He said.  The other Bill had an equally productive week with a second place finish in the B Main.  "Lamborghini has had a tough year, but we are looking forward to next season."  Said Lucas.

The rest of the crew are back next week so after some practice we may see some changes again, but Yutaka has the championship to loose and Dresser needs to keep his concentration to win the coveted gear shift.

Happy New Year.