4/27/2018
RacinBoys
McGrath to challenge for MLRA Sunoco Rookie honors
By Billy Rock (Wheatland, MO) -- Officials with the Lucas Oil MLRA have confirmed the addition of a 5th driver who has thrown his hat into the ring for the 2018 Sunoco Racing Fuels Rookie of the Year Award. Waukesha, Wisconsin pilot Mitch McGrath will join a battle that also includes drivers Joe Godsey, Jeff Roth, Payton Looney, and Cole Wells.
McGrath got his on track start in racing in 2007 behind the wheel of an IMCA Modified in his home state of Wisconsin. Turn the clock forward to 2014 and Mitch found himself looking for a new challenge which put him behind the wheel of his first super late model.
PHOTO: Wisconsin's Mitch McGrath (74) looks to contend for MLRA Sunoco Race Fuels Rookie Honors--CREDIT: Lloyd Collins FastTrackPhotos
In his first season in a late model he accomplished more than many drivers do in a career by winning local track titles at Plymouth Dirt Track and Manitowoc Raceway along with the Wisconsin Dirt Late Model Association (WDLMA) series title.
Regarding his move to the MLRA Series McGrath said, "I like to follow a series, and with my work schedule we can't commit to anything like the Lucas Oil or WOO Series being that far away. I really like the MLRA with it kind of being based in the Midwest." He went on to say that, "It's still going to be quite a bit of traveling for us but I really like how they are able to put together back to back shows on most Fridays and Saturdays, and the fact it's not and every weekend series."
Another factor playing into his decision was the current tire rule used at most MLRA events. "I like the tire rule and running the D-55's. Putting everybody on the same tire takes that part out of the equation."
The 2018 season for the team started at the two-day Thaw Brawl in LaSalle, IL. "We didn't have the greatest start at LaSalle, but with the new car (XR1-Rocket) we hope to be in contention for the Rookie Championship at the end of the year." He will also receive support from Pro Power Racing Engines.
Mitch McGrath (74) battles with Tyler Bruening (16) at Davenport Speedway. Photo--Lloyd Collins FastTrackPhotos
For McGrath, being on the road will still come with many comforts of home, as his family based racing operation will be able to join him at most MLRA events. He has the full support of his parents as well as wife Paige and son Tucker who understand the time commitment that the 2018 season will require. Mitch is quick to point out his appreciation for his parent's involvement saying, "I couldn't do this without them."
Additional crew help will come from car chief Mike Roszina, Ryan Gross who will handle tire prep, along with Neil Zirbel.
McGrath will also have season long support from a great group of partnering sponsors including, Johnny Manhattan's, Sorce Services, Behling Racing Equipment, Matco Tools by Mike Formella, Pro Power Racing Engines, ML Performance, and Suburban Drywall.
McGrath concluded in saying, "I'm looking forward to running against the MLRA competition. We will be racing against some of the best drivers that have been doing this for a while, and I know the MLRA will bring good clean racing too. And we will hopefully learn some things along the way."
The Badger State driver will embark on his longest road venture of the season this weekend when the MLRA heads to Thunderbird Speedway in Muskogee, OK on Friday night followed by a weekend finale at Legit Speedway in West Plains, MO on Saturday night.
For all of the latest news and information fans are encouraged to visit the series website at www.MLRARacing.com.
Fans may also "like" the Lucas Oil MLRA Facebook page by clicking http://www.Facebook.com/lucasoilmlra or follow us on Twitter at http://www.Twitter.com/MLRA.
Submitted By: Kirk Elliott
