Hodges opens up NASCAR season with third at Madera Speedway

Steven Blakesley / Bobby Hodges Racing

Carson City, NV – 19 year-old NASCAR Whelen All-American Series challenger Bobby Hodges made his 2009 debut at Madera Speedway on Saturday night, bringing home a third place finish before rain canceled the second feature of the night.

“It was a great way to start out the season, especially since we were using our old car,” Hodges said.

Hodges, who is embarking on an ambitious schedule to chase the NASCAR state and national titles, qualified seventh around the one-third mile oval. Hodges started the 50 lap feature on the outside of the front row.

The Cal Poly San Luis Obispo student ran third behind Kyle Gottula before having to check up and dropping to fifth.

Hodges dueled with Ross Strmiska before passing him to take over the fourth position.

A late restart on lap 48 saw Katie Hagar spin her tires, allowing Hodges to speed by and earn a third place finish.

Heavy rain fell following the conclusion of the race, forcing speedway officials to cancel the second scheduled main event for the Late Model cars.

“We’re happy with the top-five finish, but we definitely need to keep chasing the car count,” Hodges said. “Our goal is to find the cars and win some races.”

Hodges hopes to achieve that goal this Saturday night at All American Speedway, where a twin-44 program is scheduled on the one-third mile oval.

He will also be debuting his new Western Late Model that he has tested twice at All American, and also led laps in the NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown in January.

Saturday’s events will also pay points for the Westcar Late Model Series, where Hodges was named Sportsman of the Year in 2008.

For more information on Bobby Hodges, visit www.bobbyhodges.net