Scott Barnes Set For Stars Series Debut
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Scott Barnes will make his debut in the opening round of the Stars Championship Series at Charlotte Motor Speedway and is eyeing a podium finish.
The Bermudian, who competes in the Shifter Masters class, expects to be in a stacked field of 25 to 35 drivers, including the defending champion, Joe Ruch, his Maranello Kart USA team-mate.
Barnes begins qualifying on Friday [April 26] before the pre-finals on Saturday and the final on Sunday.
“I’ve followed the series throughout the years,” Barnes told Bernews.
“I’ve never had the chance to race the championship before, financially, but joining Maranello has been a blessing and afforded me this opportunity.
“I’m looking for a top-three finish and get my hands on one of their bad-ass trophies!”
Barnes, sponsored by Butterfield & Vallis, representing their Powerade brand, added: “My team-mate, Joe Ruch, is the defending champion; we always have some tough battles.”
The 39-year-old believes it is important he makes a strong start to the series, which continues with round two at the New Castle Motorsports Park, Indiana, from May 31 to June 2.
“It’s always easier to build a points lead than to play catch-up,” he added.
“I’ve never raced this track [the Charlotte Motor Speedway] before, and the series has never used it, so we’re all in the same boat.”
Barnes enjoyed his best race weekend with Maranello Karts USA after completing a clean sweep of wins in the final round of the Rok USA Florida Winter Tour in Orlando last month.
