TANNER REIF RETURNS TO VICTORY LANE WITH JUNIOR LATE MODEL WIN
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (March 11, 2019) – 13 year-old Tanner Reif drove his #43 Junior Late Model to victory in Saturday’s MAVTV season opener at Madera Speedway, beating weather and a field of 20 drivers ages 10-16 years old for his second career win. The victory was paired with his fifth consecutive fast-time at Madera’s one-third mile dating back to last season.
Both Tanner and his younger brother Tyler opened their efforts on Friday with practices in the morning and the evening. Wet weather started to roll into the area on Saturday, so the program was moved up several hours with just one short practice for the Jr. Late Model drivers. Tanner led practice while Tyler ranked fifth in his brand-new #7 car. They were separated by only .167 seconds.
Qualifying was a similar story with both drivers aiming for bonus points and to make the top-six for the redraw for the feature. Tanner led time trials for a $100 bonus with Tyler Reif timing in fifth. They drew the same row for the 70 lap scheduled raced with Tanner starting fifth and Tyler starting sixth.
Tyler Reif worked his way through the field quickly when he jumped up to second position in his brand-new Jackson Race Car Chassis entry. He chased down race leader Joey Iest before spinning in turn three and having to restart at the back of the field. With just 15 laps in the books, Tanner used the restart to gain two positions and make his way into second place.
Tanner Reif made one attempt at the lead that was unsuccessful which nearly saw him turn the car around. A caution on lap 30 allowed Tanner a second shot to the take the lead. He completed the pass before one more caution flew on lap 32.
Officials elected to count caution laps to help speed the race along to its lap 40 break. There was enough time for a green-white-checkered finish and Tanner Reif again motored away into the break. Rain prevented the race from ever restarting and Tanner was credited with the victory by .187 seconds over Iest.
Tyler Reif was involved in a pair of spins that were called on other drivers that derailed his evening. He was forced to settle for 13th position. His best lap of a 15.528 was the third fastest “best lap” within the field of 20 and has Tyler optimistic as the drivers prepare for round #2. The series will continue with its MAVTV-televised action on April 6th with a 70 lap scheduled race.
Reif Racing wishes to thank its sponsors Power Gen Components, Vegas Fastener, Boulder Boats, Undaunted Apparel, CSM Graphics, Silver State Transports, Hampton Inn & Suites, AXCEL Sports, AR Bodies, Wilwood Brakes, Frank’s Radio Service, Advanced Racing Suspensions, Competition Carburetors, and Powder Coating Plus for their support.
