News

by Katie Boyer on May 3, 2011

Image Credit: Rasmithphoto

Danny Smith came into Saturday night’s event at KC Raceway in Chillicothe, OH with a win under his belt from Attica on Friday night. But it was a bittersweet return for Smith, an Indiana native who now resides in Chillicothe, after missing the biggest part of last season due to a back injury he sustained racing at Attica last June.

It was a welcome home like no other at KC the following night. After a tenth place qualifying run out of a 30-car field, Smith dominated heat one, clenching the win. The feature went much the same. Smith started outside the fifth row, making his way quickly toward the front of the field. Rob Chaney was leading the field, quickly setting the pace and checking out. However, a caution mid-race brought the field back nose to tail for a 15 lap shoot-out to the finish. Within only a handful of laps after the restart, Smith took his #4 machine and made his move under Chaney in turns one and two and took the top spot away, and he never looked back.

In victory lane, KC’s house announcer Bruce Hines asked Smith if there was anyone he wanted to thank for the win. Without hesitation, Smith grabbed the mic.

“This one goes out to the fans from all over that pitched in and helped me out by sending money and prayers. This race is for all of you. I appreciate it and dedicate this win to you,” Smith said to a crowd of applauding fans.

Smith made one thing very clear this weekend, he is back and stronger than ever, winning both races he competed in. It just goes to show that although injuries can keep drivers off the track, being away from racing merely adds fuel to their fire to get back out there. Smith proved that not only once, but twice, in one weekend. He said it best, with confidence and a big grin.

“It feels good to be back.”

The next race on the schedule for the O’Reilly Midwest All Star Series is slated for May 14th at Mercer Raceway Park in Mercer, PA.

http://www.onedirt.com/news/smith-back-in-victory-lane-after-breaking-back-less-than-a-year-ago/