Willis Seeking Progress, ROY on VMRS
Stafford Springs, CT — Mike Willis, Jr. of Grantham, NH will start the Town Fair Tire 80 at Stafford Motor Speedway tonight in the 24th spot. The Valenti Modified Racing Series rookie recorded his best finish of the season at Seekonk on June 7.
“(The) car was very consistent,” Willis said. “(I) just was in the wrong lane on that last restart and lost a lot of spots. I was really happy to run third pretty much the whole race to show that we can run with the big dogs.”
“We have had a very consistent season so far,” Willis said. “We haven’t had any wrecks so that’s good and we have made every race this season. We as a team are still learning how to get a handle on these long races. I’m still learning as a driver how to drive these long races. I’ve had a lot of fun so far racing with all the guys in the tour.”
“I want to make and finish every race,” Willis said. “And to continue to improve on my overall finish position and of course win Rookie of the Year. I know after we get some more experience we will be able to contend for wins and tops on a weekly basis”
Willis’ favorite track is Waterford Speedbowl. He called it “very fun to get around. It’s fast and very racy.”
The crew chief is Mike Willis, Sr. Rick Anderson, Kevin French, Dave Miller and David Barton are the crew. Osgood Concrete Floors, A.B. Gile Insurance, Legacy Landscaping, and SK Bean Enfield Gradge provide sponsorship. The #38 car is lettered by Art Attack Sign and Design.
Willis began his career in Go Karts at Sugar Hill Speedway at the age of nine in 2001. His father Mike Sr. was a former racer and wanted to begin his son’s career. After three championships in five years, Willis moved to the Granite State Mini Sprint Club, driving a 500cc Mini Sprint. He won the championship in 2007 before moving to the Twin State Speedway in Claremont, NH. 2009 saw Willis claim third in Pepsi Modified points and the Most Improved Driver Award. He won back to back championships at Twin State. Willis dominated with 12 wins at Canaan USA to win the final Modified track title.
Sources: Nicholas Teto/YankeeRacer.com