That is how many drivers feel when they lose a sprintcar feature race, including the guys at Kendrick Racing Team immediately after they claimed second in the WA Sprintcar Championship at the Perth Motorplex on December 10.
The record books will show that Jason Kendrick was beaten across the line by Victorian Tim Van Ginneken in the time-honoured event, denying JK a third championship win.
Despite leading at various stages in the 30-lap final Kendrick was no match for the eventual winner.
Now that the team has time to reflect, being second is still a great achievement, but deep down, everyone in the team has a burning desire to make amends.
“We rolled out the black car that Jason ran last year and we just couldn’t get it right on the night,” team owner Geoff Kendrick said.
“We chased our tails all night and ultimately we were not good enough to get the job done.
“We ran second and it was a great race for the win and for the crowd and congratulations to the winning team.”
The team has taken the bold step of preparing a new car and engine combination for the first round of the Wormall Civil USA v WA Sprintcar Speedweek series that gets underway at Quit Bunbury Speedway on Boxing Day. “It is all brand new and never been raced, so hopefully that is the car we will use for the rest of the season.”
The white car that Jason crashed recently has also been repaired and is ready as a back-up.
Speedweek will see the team also race at the Perth Motorplex on December 27 before Bunbury again on December 30 and the final at the Motorplex on January 1.
“When I used to race with Ron Krikke Speedweek was one on the calendar we highlighted as we always wanted to win that and the whole team has the same attitude heading into next week’s racing.”
Kendrick said the Americans would be strong opponents but they were looking forward to challenging them for a series win.
“Before we go racing I would like to thank all our sponsors and supporters, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year – and we look forward to seeing you trackside.”
