ROSEBURG, ANOTHER TOP FIVE FOR BARKSHIRE

The 8th race of the Camping World West Series in Roseburg, Oregon on July 11th proved to be both frustrating and rewarding for the Barkshire team. As Bob Barkshire explained, "It was frustrating that the car wasn't fast enough to compete for the lead, but rewarding that we were able to move up from our 9th place qualifying position, stay out of trouble, and finish a respectable 5th." It was their fourth top five, and seventh top ten finish out of the eight races run so far this season.

Of course Jeff's goal is always to win, but unfortunately some misjudgments on set up resulted in his car being too loose off the corners. They fought being too tight in the first practice, made changes to free up the car and improved to a third quickest final time in the second practice. But with the assumption that the track would tighten up during the race more than it did, the "further" adjustments made before qualifying proved to be too much, resulting in a qualifying time of 9th and a too loose car for most of the race.

"We're still anxious for that win," Jeff said, "but it's satisfying to have even 'finished' all eight races, with seven top tens, considering all the bad luck we had last season." With the Roseburg results in, Jeff retains the fourth spot in the championship points standings, and the lead in the rookie standings, coming home the top finishing rookie for the sixth time in eight races.

For those of you who viewed the race live or watched it on TV, you probably noticed Jeff's Centennial Battery Dodge had a request, rather than a sponsor, on its' hood. It read, "Think Remission for Connie." Connie, the wife of Jeff's engine builder and team member, Donnie Simmonson, has bravely and optimistically been battling cancer, and now, following a bone marrow transplant, is awaiting word that she is in remission. Our positive thoughts, and those of all who join us, will serve as extra encouragement for them during this hopeful time.

Finally, we have a race in our home state! We will be racing next in Monroe, Washington at Evergreen Speedway, on July 26th.

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