Travis Billingsley Wins First Running of the FRL Indy 200

 Ten cars started the first segment of the FRL's Indy 200 on Thursday night, May the 26th. The action was plentiful as early lap jitters collected several drivers in the early going. As things settled down, many drivers struggled to find a solid line, while a few found their groove and pushed to the front. Travis Billingsley and Andrew Steppat would dominate the front two positions for most of the night. However, spin in the late stages of the first segment race opened the door for Ethan Maestri to snag the second spot from Andrew.

 The second segment didn't have the huge tangle in Turn's 1 & 2 that characterized the the first segment. But a lot of rubbing and bumping took place still. Ethan Maestri took advantage of Travis caution in lap traffic and went for the lead, only to barrel into the back of a slower lap car and would pound the outside wall hard, giving Travis the lead. However, Paul would charge forward and take the lead quickly from Travis. Leading for a couple of laps until tangling with Carter Merkling and slapping the outside wall of Turn 1 as well.

 The rest of the race featured a furious battle between Andrew Steppat and Travis for the lead. Andrew finally made his move and was cautiously trying to maintain his lead as his tires wore heavily, late in the race. Ethan's Chevrolet, on much fresher tires and dtermined to get his lap back, moved to the outside of Steppat into Turn 3. Andrew was unable to hold his Honda on the low side and the two cars crashed together in the chute between 3 and 4. Travis inherited the lead, and a lap later, victory.

 We'll have more on the race, and drivers thoughts on the next episode of Forzday This Week. For now congratulations to Travis on his win. On now to the 7th race in the FEC Series with the Road Atlanta 125.