Catchfence

DuQuoin, IL - The No. 44 Ansell-Menards Ford, driven by Frank Kimmel, finished 6th in the Southern Illinois 100 presented by Federated Auto Parts from the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds. Frank Kimmel qualified the Ansell-Menards Ford in the 23rd position, but the entire morning was full of difficulties for the Kimmel Racing team to overcome.

From the very beginning of this mornings practice the Ansell-Menards Ford lacked speed, as Frank posted only the 22nd fastest speed in practice. The team would find the issue near the end of practice. Apparently the engine on the Ansell-Menards Ford had an internal issue. The Kimmel Racing team elected to bring out the backup Ansell-Menards Ford and put it through pre-qualifying technical inspection. The backup Ansell-Menards Ford was the same car that Frank finished 6th with at Madison International Speedway last weekend and prior to today had never raced on dirt.

However, it seemed that the rough luck made Frank and the Kimmel Racing team more determined to fight through the adversity and come away with a good finish. From the drop of the green flag, Frank was able to quickly move the Ansell-Menards Ford through the field. By the first pit-stop Frank had driven the Ansell-Menards Ford into the top fifteen. The team would catch another break when others had to pit under the next caution, which moved Frank up to 7th. From that point, Frank would stay inside the top ten and race as high as 5th before eventually taking the checkered flag in the 6th position. In the other Kimmel racing entry, Will Kimmel would finish 8th in the Messina Wildlife-Menards Ford.

“Not a bad day for our backup Ansell-Menards Ford, especially considering how things started. Turn two was our weak point today but we made up great time in the other turns. I tell you I did more sliding than I’m comfortable with on this dirt track and I think that’s where the dirt racing regulars have the advantage. Overall, I’m happy with the result and extremely proud of my guys for working so hard today. I’m excited to see what we can get at Salem, Kansas and Toledo,” said Frank Kimmel after the race.

Continue to watch for Frank Kimmel at Salem Speedway driving the No. 44 Ansell-Menards Ford on September 17th for the Kentuckiana Ford Dealers ARCA Fall Classic presented by Federated Car Care in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards. Also, be sure to visit a Menards location to purchase your next pair of Ansell Gloves.

- Sports One Press Release