Proving even when you are one of the best you continue to learn, Kye Walters had a challenging but pleasing weekend of racing at the Gympie Gold Rush Modified Sedan Showdown.
The current National Modified Sedan champion travelled to Queensland for the event to have his first hit-out of the season against some of the biggest names in the class.
The club cancelled practice planned the night before the event due to low water levels, and so it was no surprise drivers were met with a dusty track on the first night of competition.
“Night One was a challenge for sure,” Walters said.
“Probably a bit rusty on the driving and the car wasn’t really where it needed to be.”
Despite blowing out some cobwebs, Walters finished the night with a second place behind the G28 of Aidan Raymont, a fifth place in his second heat and a second place behind the CR54 of Michael Shelford.
His fastest lap for the night was during his last heat when he recorded 18.788.
Walters qualified in third position for the second of two mini features on Saturday night, and came home in fourth place.
Adam Jorgensen claimed the chequered flag in the mini final, followed by Shelford, Brodie Boss and Walters.
After the first night of competition, Walters was sitting eighth in points, a place where he was happy to be.
“I didn’t really have any expectation,” he said.
“I was happy to be in the Top 10 for points (as it) usually means you are locked into the show so no stress there!”
Sunday night seen drivers take to a track that had a little more moisture, but Walters admitted it still didn’t lead to smooth sailing.
“It was still pretty challenging for sure, (there’s) a few things I’d do differently next time,” he added.
Despite this Walters was able to claim the chequered flag in his fourth heat, finishing 0.777 seconds infront of second placed Boss.
In his last heat for the event Walters finished in fifth place, which seen him lock in a Position Seven start in the feature event.
“Obviously the plan for the final was to move forward the best I could,” Walters said.
“Passing was difficult and everyone was super competitive.
“Again, the car wasn’t really where it needs to be just yet but some more homework again and it should be sorted!”
Walters said it was good to get a run before he commences his campaign to defend his VMPA Championship.
“It shakes the rust off and gives you an idea of what you need to improve,” he added.
With just some cosmetic damage to his car, Walters’ will next be on track at Heartland Raceway Moama in two weeks.
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