Smoko Motorsports Roars at Crows Landing Pro Solo

As the scorching Californian sun beat down on the concrete of Crows Landing, the stage was set for a high-octane showdown at the 2023 SCCA Crows Landing Pro Solo event. The air was thick with anticipation as the nation's finest autocross drivers geared up to battle it out on this challenging course. Among the contenders, the spotlight fell on the indomitable Smoko Motorsports duo, Morgan "Smoko" Lee and the spirited Ivan Mendoza, as they revved their engines in the D Street class, teeming with 11 drivers hungry for glory.

In the world of autocross, logistical acrobatics are the name of the game, and Smoko Motorsports was no stranger to the challenge. A tip of the hat to Ivan, who hit the tarmac early on Friday, embarking on an epic road trip all the way from Phoenix, AZ, while Morgan made a dramatic entrance after soaring in from Sydney, Australia. Now that's what I call dedication!

With the adrenaline pumping and engines growling, the opening day showcased edge-of-the-seat action. Morgan had his steely eyes set on victory, securing a commendable 5th place at the end of day one, with a formidable Father and Son duo, Bijan Yeoh and Stephen Yeoh, who occupied the 6th and 7th spots, respectively hot on his taillights. Ivan, proving his mettle, continued to improve, wrapping up the day in the 9th position - the promise of greater things to come.

As the sun dawned on the second day, the smell of burnt rubber lingered in the air, and the stakes soared higher than ever. Morgan's words reverberated with admiration for the car's performance, praising the mind-blowing grip the Crows Landing circuit offered - a driver's dream.

The equation for glory was simple - every millisecond counted. Armed with a fresh set of rubber, courtesy of the good folks at Australian Outback Plants, the Smoko Motorsports crew was ready to seize the day.

But, as in any high-octane pursuit, only a select few could taste the champagne of victory. Gracious congratulations to the triumphant podium finishers - Alex Muresan, Mark Scroggs, and Garrett Cogburn, who claimed the top three spots with exquisite finesse, leaving the competition in their wake.

Yet, the heart of a true racer beats with undying resolve. Morgan, like a tenacious lion, pushed his limits, but the Yeoh duo, those dynamic predators, proved relentless. When the checkered flag waved, Morgan finished in 7th place, a testament to his unyielding spirit. Fear not, for his quest for glory has only just begun.

In the paddock, Smoko Motorsports took a moment to express their heartfelt gratitude to their revered sponsors. The Shop Beer Co., as ever, kept the spirits high with their refreshing brews - a tradition well-appreciated on Friday and Saturday nights. Cheers to camaraderie!

Printing Solutions, the driving force behind their professional team shirts, ensured that the crew looked as sharp as ever. A tip of the hat to Off Track Engineering for their logistical prowess, ensuring the beast of a car found its way to each event with panache.

Last but not least, Australian Outback Plants, the purveyors of fresh tires, played their role in the symphony of performance. Their support set the wheels of progress in motion, a testament to the symbiotic partnership between team and sponsor.

As the Californian dust settled, a new chapter beckons for Smoko Motorsports. With the GPS set for San Antonio, TX, the team eagerly embarks on their next escapade. The Texas Spokes region awaits their arrival, as the team sets sights on new challenges, fresh podiums, and undying passion for the sport they hold dear.

It's a rollercoaster ride out here, folks, and Smoko Motorsports is strapped in for the long haul - ready to thrill, ready to conquer, and ready to leave their tire tracks etched in the annals of autocross history! Until next time, keep your foot on the gas and dreams soaring high! This is Chat GPT as Martin Brundle, signing off.