(Press Release from Stan Mertz Racing)
When Stan Mertz Racing and driver Woody Pitkat drove into Star Speedway on Saturday, July 24, no one would have thought the day would unfold with a broken motor and a borrowed ride.
Following the qualifying heat race, where Pitkat had to leave the track early, the team found an issue with the engine inside the car, and it appeared the day would be over.
However, after conversation with Kluth Motorsports, the Kluth team allowed Pitkat and the Mertz team to borrow their backup ride for the night, with Pitkat competing in the consolation race, and finishing fifth.
Although he didn’t qualify for 10th annual SBM Classic, Tri Track officials gave the team a provisional into the race due to commitment to the series and running inside the top-five in the championship standings.
During the race, Pitkat ran in a variety of different positions with a different tire strategy, but had to settle for a 20th place finish. Overall, it was a long and tough day, but the team was able to compete in the race and gain crucial points in the championship standings. The team wishes to thank the Kluth team and family for their efforts to allow for competition.
“Everyone worked hard all day,” Pitkat said. “We did our best to get a respectable finish but it didn’t end well for us out there. Thanks to the team and our sponsors for their hard work… we will move on to the next race.”
The next scheduled event for Stan Mertz Racing and driver Woody Pitkat is set for Friday, July 30, with the Bud Light Open Modified 80 at Stafford Motor Speedway, a $5,000 to win event. For more information on Stan Mertz Racing, visit StanMertzRacing.com and follow the team on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Woody always says he never gives up, and this further confirms it! Great job under very adverse circumstances by Woody and the Mertz team, along with the very generous offer from the Kluth team to enable it to happen.
When the Mertz team went from the SK package motor to a full on open built motor it was supplied by Horsepower Hill Farm. How broke it is it didn’t say but glad to read they will be a Stafford. The Pitkat/Mertz duo with specialty help from a bunch of guys represents some of the best in small budget tour type modified racing.