Ahten Looking Forward To Pomona After Vegas Outing

Courtesy of Ahten Family Racing

Pomona, CA – Strong performance at the Vegas Regional has Johnny Ahten looking forward to the World Finals in Pomona. Ahten went to the Las Vegas race with questions, and left with answers. The pain of a first round loss might disparage some, but the Ahten Racing Team is upbeat. Getting a grip on the tune-up has been frustrating, but now they have something to work with in Pomona. The previous weekend’s Big O Tire Nationals provided the team with a solid base to tune from.  During Regional action they refined that data and it resulted in a number five qualifying position.

“The Team is a bit upset about going out first round, but we are very excited about what we learned,” said Ahten. “In the first round of qualifying we put up a 5.536/248.43. We made some adjustments and Saturday’s session really wowed us. Our 5.402/252.24 is what we have been working for. It was truly an accomplishment to qualify fifth with such a stout field. “

On the strength of the 5.402, Ahten faced Megan McKernan in the first round. Ahten was aggressive on the tree and got the advantage on McKernan. Things were looking good for the “Stump Puller” as it sped down the track. Just as the clutch started to come in, the car went into shake and the tires started spinning.  It was at this point that Johnny Ahten was about to pedal it, but seeing McKernan out in front, he lifted to race another day.

“It’s not always the easy thing to do, but getting out of it was the right thing to do,” added Ahten. “Now we have some insight as to how and why we improved. We are all looking forward to Pomona. It is our home track and it will be fantastic to have family, friends, and the Firefighting community with us.”

Driving home Sunday night after a weekend of racing, Ahten was thrilled about the Team’s progress. They had put the time and effort into the tune-up and were rewarded with good numbers. The Island Renovations / 801 Racing / Fireman’s Brew Team, will carry this momentum into Pomona.  Johnny Ahten might not have hit the Jackpot in Vegas, but he leaves a richer man. He plans on cashing in some of those chips in Pomona.