Speeds in excess of 200 mph are commonplace at Talladega, this could easily be considered a treacherous track for rookie Austin Wayne Self. The 33 degrees of dramatic banking and drafting create a rare and challenging race environment. In a display of admirable maturity, composure and perseverance Austin Wayne Self proved he is a driver to watch. The entire 22 AM Technical Solutions Dodge team conquered Talladega and finished third over all!
“Everyone told me that if you even finish at Talladega in one piece you’ve done a good job. We finished third and I got to push my teammate to victory.” Said Self.
AWS started the race out p10 after putting the car on the map with a 52.968 lap time and speed of 180.788 MPH. Throughout the race Austin diligently moved toward the front of the pack. In the final laps he and teammate Tom Hessert joined forces to push their way to the front and secure the race lead. On the final lap Austin pushed his teammate to a celebrated win. The Cunningham race team finished the day 1,3 in stunning fashion!
Not only did Austin finish within the top 3 on his first Super Speedway appearance, but he also secured the Scott Rookie of the Race Award for the second week in a row and he is P7 in season points standings though he is a race down with only 3 starts. As FOX Sports Commentator and Parsons Racing team owner Phil Parsons pointed out, “Austin is very impressive, only 18 years old and finished third at his first time out in Talladega, that’s impressive.”
“I’m thankful for our entire team’s effort. My crew chief Chad and the entire AMTS Cunnigham Dodge team worked really hard to put me in a fast car.”-AWS
Austin will now head to the road course New Jersey Motorsports Park where last year he gained experience and knowledge. Lookout for the 22 Team as they hit New Jersey!
Follow Austin Wayne Self on Twitter @AustinWSelf and on Facebook.com/AustinWSelf for updates and photos!
