Martin-McClure Racing: Iowa Post-Race Release

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This past weekend, MMR traveled to the midwest to compete in the Casey’s General Store 150 at Iowa Speedway. This was the third showing for both Chad Finchum and Justin Fontaine for this NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race season. This was a one-day event with two scheduled practice sessions; however, the second practice session was canceled due to an afternoon rainstorm. Qualifying and the race resumed at their respective scheduled times.

Chad Finchum made his second start at Iowa Speedway. During the first practice, Finchum ran his fastest lap of 25.4 seconds with his fastest speed of 124.02 MPH. Qualifying in 16th position, Finchum battled tight handling conditions throughout the race. During the mid-race 5 minute break, the No.39 Reynolds Wrap Toyota Camry team made adjustments, refueled, and changed tires. As the race approached its conclusion, Crew Chief, Chris Carrier ordered an unscheduled pit stop to address the sudden loose handling conditions fearing an issue with air pressure levels in the tires. It was then determined that bringing the car to the garage with 20 laps remaining would be the best decision. Finchum finished in 30th position.

Justin Fontaine made his first career start at Iowa Speedway which also is the largest track Fontaine has raced on to date. During the first practice session, Crew Chief, Bruce Cook coached Fontaine around the track providing feedback on the best lines to race around the .875 mile, asphalt, D-shaped oval track. Fontine, in the No.75 ProMATIC Automation Toyota Camry, ran his fastest lap round Iowa Speedway in 25.291 seconds at a speed of 124.55 MPH. The unfortunate cancellation of second practice due to inclement weather took precious on track time away from racers. Fontaine qualified for the event in 26th position. During the race, Fontaine fought tight handling conditions throughout the race event. However, he was able to complete all laps in the event and finished in the 22nd position. Upon completion of the event, Crew Chief Bruce Cook praised Fontaine for his quick learning of the track stating “You’ve come a long way son… it’s not where you finish it’s how you race.”

MMR PR

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