MC Racing Solidifies Second in the Points with a Podium Finish in the Season Finale

October 11, 2020 (Sonoma, CA) – Michael McColligan, driving the #36 MC Racing Mazda RX8 closed out
the season with a third place finish to solidify second in the season points in Round 6 of the Hankook
Tires United States Touring Car Championship at Sonoma Raceway.

MC Racing was in second place in the Sportsman Series Points by a slim margin heading into the season finale. The team decided to continue their strategy of conserving tires for the feature race using Saturday as practice. Team driver Michael McColligan struggled getting the car to work in the cooler Saturday conditions with the team hoping fresh tires and warmer Sunday conditions would bring stronger pace.

This proved to be the case as the car balance and lap times improved significantly when the sun came out. Unfortunately, McColligan was not able to get a clean lap in the crowded mixed group qualifying and was only able to place the RX8 in P6 on the starting grid with their chief rival on the front row. McColligan got a great standing start and was able to take the inside heading into turn 2 in fourth place. The battles for position were intense and unfortunately McColligan slipped back to fifth after a few laps. “My crew chief kept giving me the gaps to everyone and we quickly figured fifth would not keep us in second in the points so it was time for maximum attack”, stated McColligan. He regained his focus and soon began running fast and consistent laps. As the front wheel drive cars started to struggle with their tires McColligan worked his way back to fourth and was soon battling for the final position on the podium. After an intense battle McColligan was finally able to make a stellar move around the outside of turn 7 a lap and half from the checkered flag. “Wow that was a crazy race with some tight battles. What a great way to close out the season and celebrate second place in the Sportsman Season points. Thank you to my team and our awesome partners who make this all possible. The champagne tastes really good!” smiled McColligan. The team will take a bit of break and then get back to work for next season.

About MC Racing
MC Racing competes in the Hankook Tires United States Touring Car Championship aboard a Mazda RX8 with support from Idemitsu, Raybestos, Mazda USA, Mazdatrix, Racing Beat, Konig Wheels, Orafol, Eibach Springs, and Napier Outdoors. For more information, visit www.mcspeedracer.com