J.R. Todd and DHL Toyota Camry team had a tough finish to their season as they were defeated in the first round of the Auto Club Finals.
Friday qualifying did not go to plan for co-crew chiefs Jon Oberhofer and Todd Smith as the DHL Toyota Camry sat outside the field going into Saturday. However, they got a handle of the track in the third qualifying session on Saturday afternoon and recorded a solid 3.946 which slotted Todd right in the middle of the field. Todd ended up earning the ninth starting spot and a first round draw of John Force.
It was close at the starting line, but Todd was forced to make quick pedal. John Force had mechanical woes and Todd was rapidly chasing him down before he just ran out of track and Force was able to move on.
Statistics:
Qualified: No. 9 (3.946 sec., 325.53 mph)
E1: Todd defeated by J.Force – 4.203 sec., 310.05 mph to 4.178 sec., 232.39 mph
Quotable: “To lose in the first round is a very disappointing way to close out this season for the DHL/WIX Filters Toyota team. We have accomplished a lot, but we definitely strive to be the best. My guys will work hard in the offseason and I am confident we will be ready for pre-season testing in Phoenix next January.”
Final Point Standings: Ninth
Kalitta Motorsports PR/Photo Gary Nastase Photography
