Jake Engle Logs Another Top-15 at Orange

Flyin’ 51 car leading the pack through 39 laps

17-year-old driver Jake Engle and his team Jake Racing were back in action recently, this time at the Orange Show Speedway in San Bernardino, CA, competing in the ASA Super Late Model race. From the get-go, Engle owned the track. Not only did he start in the pole position, the Flyin’ 51 car clearly had an edge. In fact, the talented, young driver led the pack through 39 laps.

“This was the first time since I began racing Super Late Models where the race was mine to lose,” said Engle after he pulled into the pit for the final time. “Finishing in the top 15 is something our team should be proud of, but I know I let this one slip away.”

Rolling into lap 40 under yet another restart – the seventh of the night due to caution, Engle was on high alert to maintain his position. Unfortunately, as the green flag dropped, fellow driver Brett Edwards visibly jumped the start. Unbeknownst to Engle and the Jake Racing Team, the race director was set to initiate the eighth restart of the night. But before he could drop the yellow flag, Engle caught Edwards’ Chevy Impala in turn three and attempted an outside-in pass. Already committed, Engle nicked his bumper, caused a spin out, and sent both drivers to the back of the pack.

“A few seconds later, there would have been a restart, and we could have avoided the trouble altogether,” added Engle. “Still, I made a good move, closed fast, and I thought I could make it. Obviously, I was wrong. This one stings, and I feel bad for Brett. Linny White, too, who prepares our cars. But that’s racing.”

Engle fought back before the checkered flag dropped, finishing in the top 15. Nonetheless, it was a very disappointing night for the up-and-comer, who previously finished third at the Orange Show Speedway.

June 12th, 2010  |  Posted in Media / Publicity, Newsworthy