Riot to start fifth in trophy trucks, 13 overall at Silver State 300
As the crew drove up to Apex Thursday afternoon for time trials dark clouds hovered over the mountaintops. Driving into the grey mist everyone’s confidence remained high. Riot had strong faith in the truck that is a month in the making and their stand-in driver, Rick Geiser. A little rain wouldn’t dampen their spirits.
Shortly before the pre run the clouds finally dissipated and the sun came out to greet the spectators. Jets flew overhead from the nearby Nellis Air Force Base as the trucks lined up before a magnificent view at the start.
Rick pushed the truck off the line moving swiftly in the long downhill straightaway decked out with whoops. The three-mile course was very tight, starting off hard packed and shifting to more of a soft, silty texture. The truck only reached high gear once and then quickly Rick shifted back down to second.
“We didn’t blow any turns. We didn’t screw up. I thought we pushed pretty hard,” Rick Geiser said about the run. “I think we did really good. We will be in a good starting position.” Riot placed thirteenth overall and is the fifth trophy truck starting in Saturday’s race.
With time trials under their belt, the crew has their eyes and minds set on race day. Friday will be packed with Contingency and Technical Inspection at the Aliante Casino and Hotel in North Las Vegas. Riot will be there selling their new t-shirts, sweatshirts and hats. By 9:30 a.m. on Saturday in Alamo the real fun will begin.
The first 100 miles of the course will consist of track similar to grated roads that will create a fast running pace. “We need to keep track position,” Rick said of Riot’s strategy for the race. “We’re probably going to push very hard the first 100.” Those miles and pit strategy will be critical for Riot to make a strong finish. The next 200 miles become very tight and technical, making it more difficult to pass. Still, Silver State will be very exciting and action packed from start to finish.
While this course will be challenging, Rick is excited to be a part of it with Riot Racing. “I was already coming to help out at the races, and to drive the (Riot) truck and qualify put the icing on the cake.” As a builder of this truck he will be racing Saturday, Rick has confidence in its ability. “To drive one of our trucks that’s top notch and good, that makes it even better,” he said.
“I’m excited to drive for a good team and all the people that help.” Riot, as well, is thrilled to have Rick piloting their race vehicle for Silver State. It’s going to be a fun ride, and fans can track everything Riot on their Web site, http://www.riotracing.com.
- Thursday April 22, 2010
- By Riot Racing
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