Claiming SP Class Stakes

San Ramon, CA – It really didn’t look like Justin Crickenberger hasn’t been to Sonoma Raceway for a long while. He also has never been here with his #72 Honda Civic si. Thus, Justin decided to make use of some additional track time through TrackMasters on Friday afternoon prepping for Round 2 of the 2022 United States Touring Car Championship.

Throughout Friday and Saturday, a few set-up changes were made to the car. Justin felt right at home with both track and car, resulting in him claiming a consecutive SP class Pole Position. A good place to start the race come Sunday.

Even with an additional 100lbs added to the car by USTCC officials, there was no stopping Justin, squarely keeping his eyes on the prize.

It is always harder to start well with a front wheel powered car, and to get heat into those rear tires. Come Sunday, Justin managed to get an incredible launch off the line, putting a few cars between him and the other SP class competitors by Turn 2. He continued to mix it up with some faster cars in the first few laps. Then he found himself in space with clear track ahead, continuously stretching his lead and bringing the car home for another class win – His second in a row!

Being able to manage that lead, also allowed Justin to manage the Hankook tire wear again, which should pay dividends towards the end of the season and talking to the team members of Red Panther Motorsport, there are always a few ideas for future improvements popping up.

Justin Crickenberger reviews his Round TWO performance:
“Sonoma sure proves a different challenge. Lots of blind corners, elevation changes and different corner combinations. It is a treat to race here and with Red Panther Motorsport. I am looked after so well, I can totally concentrate on driving and improving. We got the car running and handling so well, I had lots of confidence driving this challenging track. A fantastic start to the race, which I hope to be able to reproduce in the future. Glad it wasn’t a ‘close encounter’ start like last time. My launch helped me tremendously in keeping the competition in my rear mirror. There are fast guys in this group, and it is so much fun mixing it up every race weekend. A second win this season is fantastic, and I couldn’t have asked for more. I am already looking forward to Fontana in a few weeks!”

About Red Panther Motorsport (RPM)
A leading California based professional racing team. RPM competes in the Hankook Tires United States Touring Car Championship (USTCC) race series and has won multiple class Championships. For more information, please see and visit www.RedPantherMotorsport.com and like us on our social media channels.