2011 Sunset Speedway Mini Stock Preview: Butler’s Back For A Third
As posted at http://www.newsfromthepits.com on 5-7-2011

While we’ve seen the competition vary in the Late Model and Super Stock ranks, the Mini Stocks have seen a common thread at the front of the field. For the past two years, Doug Butler has dominated the Mini Stock division and won the championship both years. This year, he brings back the same car, prepared to try for a third in a row. 30% of the voters believe it will happen as there looks to be nothing stopping him.

However, the other 70% have other thoughts as with Butler consistently performing as well as he has, the others have stepped up their game for this year as they want to roam supreme.

50% of the voters say it’ll be Nicole Podewils who steps up to the plate in her mustang to win the championship. Podewils has worked hard the last few years in getting her mustang quick and last year, she was a front contender each week. Winning a couple of features near the end of the year, it’d be no surprise if she carries that momentum into this season. Though to be a true contender, Podewils needs to avoid the trouble that found her last year as losing those points is what dropped her in points.

Another person who has a legitimate shot is third-place points finisher Terry Clodd, who found victory lane in the heat races a lot. Clodd is another driver, like Podewils, who’s been working hard at finding the speed to catch Butler. At times during the season, he was closer than some. With the off-season to work on a new set-up, could it be enough to work out that bit to catch Butler?

However, the surprise of the season may come in the form of a new driver to Sunset Speedway – Gary Hogan. Last year, Hogan proved his car was fast on the Sunset track as he won an invitational late in the year in dominating fashion, running lap times as quick as Butler. If he can run that pace throughout the entire year and avoid the trouble that many find in Mini Stocks, then it’d be no surprise if he finds the championship in his hands either.

Beyond those, there are many other competitors who will have a legitimate shot at some race wins, though would need to step it up a lot if they want to take the championship. Expect top 10 points finishers Dan Britt, Warren Paxton and Rob Krystal to find victory lane at least once during the season as they have proven before they can win races. Also, keep eyes peeled on Rob Gibson Jr. and Mike Robinson Jr. as both are gaining speed and may find themselves in the mix for wins also.

The Mini Stock division is always one that’s fun to watch for the competition amongst some of the top contenders, but also fun to watch as it gives you a glimpse as your next Super Stock or Late Model driver. A lot of young drivers, 14 years of age and up, get their start in Mini Stock before moving their way up and normally it gives you a good sign on whether they’ll be a good driver or not.