HUNT TAKES LEAD IN SEARCH OF 6TH USAC DRIVING TITLE


The USAC AMSOIL Western Sprint Car Series visits Shasta Raceway Park in Anderson, Calif. Saturday night and five-time USAC driving champion Tony Hunt will wear the favorite’s hat at the 3/8-mile paved oval.


 


None of Hunt’s previous 27 series victories were at Shasta, although he has had a second, third and a fourth in four starts there. He was also the fastest qualifier for the 2004 race at Shasta.


 


Hunt, of Lincoln, Calif., earned his 27th career USAC AMSOIL Western Sprint Car feature victory Saturday night at All American Speedway in Roseville, Calif., leading the final 17 laps to win the 50-lap race over fast qualifier Tanner Swanson, JoJo Helberg, Audra Sasselli and Shauna Hogg. Hunt piloted the Phulps Racing Metal Works Special to the victory.


 


A 2010 USAC Western Sprint title would give Hunt his sixth USAC championship. Only five drivers have ever won more. Hunt’s titles have come in Western Sprints (2001, 2004 and 2006), Western Regional Sprint (2002) and Russell Pro (1992).


 


Scott Pierovich of Alamo, Calif. is seventh in the current standings but might have a leg up on the competition at Shasta. His car owner, Ken Pierson, won the 2004 race there with driver Tim Barber.