SHOALHAVEN Heads’ Glen Arnold has continued his dream season on the track, recently returning from the United States victorious.
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The 22-year-old won the 2017 INEX Legend Car Nationals at Red River Valley Speedway in North Dakota – which is considered the highest achievement he can possibly claim in the National Pro Division.
“After winning the Australian title in May, we found out that I had qualified for the US Nationals,” Arnold said.
“So that’s when we started making inquiries and Legend Cars Australia approached us and offered to supply me with a new car for the event.
“This was a fantastic offer and following that, everything started to fall into place.”
The car itself was located in Charlotte, which was about a 25 hour drive to Fargo, North Dakota - which was the first hurdle.
“We contacted the closest local United States Legend Car dealer in Minnesota and after that, the wheels got in motion, as Tim Brockhouse from Great North Legends organised the transport assembly set-up and everything you could possibly need at such an event,” Arnold said.
“His brother even lived in Fargo and offered the use of his workshop and facilities – which was amazing.”
Once the car had been obtained and prepared, a three-day event awaited Arnold and his team.
“The first day was practice before day two was qualifying, heats and race of champions,” Arnold said.
“The third and final day was the national feature race.
“In qualifying, I struggled to get a clean lap and qualified last before continuing my struggles in the heats, only managing a fifth and DNF (did not finish).
“In the race of champions, I got a good grid draw and finished first in the Pro Class, which was a great way to finish a tough day.”
In the main event, Arnold was resigned to starting from the rear of the field in 13th position – which didn’t prove to be an issue.
“Before the 30 lap feature, I asked for some changes to the car which proved to be a masterstoke,” he said.
“I went the high line and started moving forward through the field, taking the lead with eight laps remaining.
“In a great battle with the local drivers, I finished in first place, winning the National Pro Division.”
Arnold acknowledged his sponsors help – saying he wouldn’t have made it to the US if not for their support.