Always producing some of North America’s top engine packages, Florida’s Ogden USA was back at the front of the field this past weekend at the Cold Stone Rotax Pan American Challenge. Taking place at the GoPro Motorplex facility in Mooresville, North Carolina, Ogden USA powered driver Matt Solarcyk claimed a podium result in the talent-laden Rotax Junior field.
“We had several drivers in Mooresville,” explained Paul Howard, Engine Builder for Ogden USA. “Matt (Solarcyk) proved that our engines and trackside support is of the highest quality. Trenton Estep showed great pace throughout the weekend and looked to be a threat for the victory before a first corner incident took him out of contention.”
Showing speed throughout the week, both Solarcyk and Estep would be at the pointy end of the Rotax Junior class. Running against some of the country’s best and with top drivers from around the world, the pair of Ogden USA powered drivers held their own as they progressed through Friday’s qualifying session and Saturday’s three heat races. Setting themselves up for a shot for the victory on Championship Sunday, both drivers were in the hunt from the drop of the green flag.
Claiming a heat race win, Trenton Estep, aboard his Ogden USA powered Tony Kart, looked to be one of the biggest challengers for the race win and accompanying Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals ticket before a first corner incident took him out of the race.
Howard added, “It was such a disappointment to see Trenton involved in the first corner melee. With the speed he showed all week and the tuning all coming together, Sunday could have been his day.”
Taking advantage of the incidents, staying out of trouble and also showing speed of his own, Birel pilot Matt Solarcyk found his way to the front of the field in the main event. Claiming some of the fastest laps of the day, Solarcyk drove to the front of the field and led laps before claiming a second place result and celebrating on the podium after that afternoon.
“Matt had a great run and he deserves the result,” expressed Howard after the event. “He really worked hard this week and managed to be in the right place at the right time. Showing speed to run at the front of the field, we would like to congratulate Matt on his impressive performance and podium result.”
With the Rotax karting season now complete, Ogden USA will now shift their focus to the SuperKarts! USA (SKUSA) SuperNationals. Preparing several IAME and Vortex Mini Rok powerplants for the biggest race of the year, Ogden USA looks to carry the momentum into Sin City as they battle for race wins just off the Las Vegas strip.
For more information on Ogden Racing Engines USA, please visit them online at www.OgdenUSA.com or contact engine builder Paul Howard at 317.225.6199 or Jay Howard via e-mail at Info@OgdenUSA.com.
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