Michael Lira’s return to Toledo

Michael Lira was excited to return to Toledo Speedway, the ARCA Series presented by Menards home track.  Last year he raced to a ninth place finish, after qualifying 12th, at the northern Ohio 1/2 mile oval.

 

This year, rain storms in the morning caused ARCA Officials to modify Saturday’s schedule, giving one 90 minute practice session before qualifying.  Michael’s TraqGear Ford Fusion handled great when the team unloaded, and only minor adjustments were necessary during the session. In qualifying, Michael posted a fast lap time of 16.033, which was good enough to secure him 4th place on the 30 car starting grid.

 

On lap 8, Michael experienced an electrical issue that required him to pull the car behind the wall.  Shortly after, it began to rain and the red flag was displayed.  The Lira Motorsports crew was able to diagnose and fix the problem, allowing Michael to rejoin the field when competition resumed after the rain delay.  Michael returned to the race P24, 15 laps down.

 

The Lira Motorsports team never gave up, and Michael was able to race his way up to a 17th place finish.

 

“We had a really fast race car, what a shame.  But, we never gave up, “ Michael said, “my team and I used the race to learn more about the handling of our TraqGear Ford Fusion.”  “I feel like we made major gains on our handling and I’m looking forward to next short track race.”

 

Michael and the Lira Motorsports team will look to improve this weekend at the New Jersey Motorsports Park  road course.  “I hope to use my road course experience this weekend for a great finish for our team, “ Michael said. “David and I are excited to race at New Jersey and put Lira Motorsports on the podium.”

Lira Motorsports PR