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Local BKC racers Do Well At Nationals
by Mike Weaver
July 26 - 27, 2003
Dousman, WI
This past weekend, the World Karting Association held the prestigious George
Kugler Manufacturers Cup Grand Nationals at Badger Raceway in Dousman
WI. This marked the 3rd year in a row this series has chosen Badger
Raceway to hold this event. Touted as one of the finest facilities for
karting in the country, Badger tends to be most drivers’ favorite track.
Local HPV Jr. Sportsman driver Zack Emmons nabbed his first “eagle” (the
trophy given to Grand National winners) this weekend. Emmons had a spell
of good luck during the prelims. Driving in 5th place, he was as fast as
the leaders but just could not get around any of them. However, around
mid-race, 2nd and 3rd collided in the “sweeper” turn moving Emmons to
third. In the next turn, the leader, local Nick Gillette, dropped a tire
off the track and spun forcing 2nd place Matthew Lee to take evasive
action. Emmons slipped by at full power and took a 10-kart lead, winning
the prelim over Lee.
In the feature, starting from the pole position, Emmons used his home-track
experience to take the point over Matthew Lee. For 20 laps, the two
raced nose-to-tail, but Lee just could not get around the hometown
favorite. At the line, Emmons scored his first National win as well as
his first Grand National win!
In 80cc, Ronny Graham overcame problems in qualifying and in the pre-final and
raced his way from deep in the field to a solid 4th place. Graham
managed to get up to 5th but just could not catch Donnie Bussell.
However, 2nd place Kyle Rahal experienced engine problems and dropped out
moving Graham up to 4th for his first podium finish at a national event.
In ICC Shifter, local favorite Jamie Sieracki experienced technical problems
both Saturday and Sunday. Clearly one of the fastest karts all weekend,
the disappointed Sieracki managed to capture a 5th place on Sunday, even with
clutch problems. Jesse Schwabe, another local ICC driver, managed to
capture 7th place in his first-ever national event.
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