Lovells Experience Triumph and Tribulation on Pikes Peak
Racing Pikes Peak is not something to be taken lightly. The utterly unforgiving nature of the road is clear to anyone who has driven it. In lieu of gravel traps, dense trees and sheer drop-offs line the course. It is not a race where you can push past the limit.
After a grueling 1300mi road trip from Crandon, WI from the Traxxas TORC Series and all-night prep job on the #44 AMSOIL Nissan Pro-Light, the brothers made it to tech inspection. A milestone in itself, tech inspection marks the beginning of three days of practice and Fan Fest, all of which culminate into race day on Sunday.
photo courtesy of Jud Leslie
While Brad was returning for his second year, this was Roger’s rookie year on the peak. Sporting his familiar #4432 AMSOIL Ultra 4, Roger joined a class of six rock racers. Practice went well for the team as they tuned the trucks and worked through mechanical gremlins.
photo courtesy of Jud Leslie
As the sun rose Sunday morning, the largest field in recent history lined up to battle the mountain. Roger took the green flag two vehicles ahead of Brad. Unfortunately, fate was not kind and several miles into the lower section, he missed an apex and experienced a disastrous roll. While the vehicle is likely a total loss, Roger walked away with only bumps and bruises. “It was a terrible feeling watching the safety trucks race up the road after my brother,” recalls Brad, “After a while I got word that he was alright but it left me with a lot to think about as I waited for my chance at the hill.”
photo courtesy of Chris Hord
Brad regained his focus and raced past the battered vehicle. Precision was key as the Nissan roared up the hill. Brad took the checkers with a time of 12:33 (2nd in Pikes Peak Open) which is nearly 45 seconds faster than his rookie attempt. “I was really pleased with my performance but it was a long day at 14,000 ft wondering about my brother. Our team, family, and friends did a tremendous job getting me from the podium at Crandon to the podium on Pikes Peak. I’m proud to get a strong finish for AMSOIL, BFG, Nissan, and all our sponsors.”
photo courtesy of Chris Hord
Video Brad’s run: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUppmS8aCU8
photo courtesy of Jud Leslie
Video of Roger’s run: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sd7PLoeyrrw
photo courtesy of Kenneth Gross
External video of Roger’s crash: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rKIw6tn244
While #4432 might need a breather, both Brad and Roger will strive on in their 2011 campaign. Up next for the pair is the American Rocksports Challenge at Miller Motorsports Park in Salt Lake City, UT July 14th – 16th. Only a week later, Brad will return to TORC short course racing at the legendary Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina.