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Australian Driver Alex Orr Takes On The 27th Annual Chili Bowl Midget Nationals
19-year-old Alex Orr has ventured outside the borders of his native Australia for the first time in his life to race in the prestigious 27th Annual Chili Bowl Midget Nationals in Tulsa, Okla. The young driver will pilot the No. 2AU machine for veteran car owner Mark Bush during his heat race and qualifying event on Thursday, January 10th and in the main feature races on Saturday, January 12th.
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“This is an incredible experience for myself and for my team that traveled here with me,” said Orr. “The Chili Bowl is well known even in Australia and having the opportunity to run it alongside some of the best in the business is a true honor. I figure if I’m ever going to leave Australia for a trip, the best place I could possibly be going is Oklahoma for the Chili Bowl.”
Orr is accompanied by his father, Anthony, and his Uncle, Chris, who make up his crew in Australia and have supported him throughout his racing career. Despite his young age, Orr has more than 15 years of experience under his belt in various vehicles on both dirt and asphalt; he currently races a 410 Sprint Car back home.
“I couldn’t do this without the support of my family,” said Orr. “My Dad and my Uncle Chris being here makes it that much more special to me. My entire family enjoys racing and some people, like my Dad and my little brother, also race which takes this whole experience to a new level since I can share it with them.”
The Monday practice sessions went well for the Aussie and not even the cold weather has dampened his high spirits as he awaits his turn to qualify.
“This time of year is our summer in Australia so the cold temperatures here was quite a shock to us when we stepped off the plane on Sunday, but as soon as I strapped into the car on Monday I felt at home,” explained Orr. “The car ran really well and I adapted quickly to the new ride and the track. Thursday will be a lot of fun and I am very excited to get my first laps of competition here, especially considering how large of a crowd this event draws. The fans make all of this possible for us drivers and I really appreciate everyone who comes out to watch.”
Hot laps begin at 5pm local time on Thursday evening followed by 8 heat races. Based on finishing position and passing points, the drivers are placed either directly into the evening’s qualifying races or to the C Mains where they must race their way to the A Main. 4 drivers advance from the C Main to the B Main and, from there, 4 transfer to the A Main. Out of roughly 65 drivers who begin the evening’s competition, only 24 will start the night’s main event.
The week’s events culminate in the 27th Annual Chili Bowl Midget Nationals Feature event on Saturday, January 12th.
PaddockTalk Perspective
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