Recently returning home to Australia, Grant Anderson is very thankful for having had the opportunity to make his American racing debut aboard the Steve and Karen Watt-owned Maxwell Industries # 81 CS9 Sprintcar.

Commencing his American campaign at Santa Maria Raceway on the California coast, Anderson exceeded even his own expectations in what was his first ever drive in a Non-wing Sprintcar, lining up seventh for the feature race, after a third-place finish in his heat race, before bringing home a fifth-place finish.

Travelling 145 miles inland to contest the Cotton Classic at Kings Speedway in Hanford, California the following weekend, Anderson displayed solid pace from the outset, finishing runner-up from pole position in his opening heat race, before experiencing an unfortunate engine failure, which brought his night to a premature end.

Off the back of this disappointing event, Anderson managed to renew his excitement, as he made his way to Tulare Thunderbowl Raceway to take part in one of the biggest 360 Sprintcar events on the West Coast over two nights: The Trophy Cup. The event also marked the first time that Anderson had piloted a 360 Sprintcar since his debut season in 2000-01, when he ran the ACT # 4 car owned by Jim Williamson.

Timing 41st in his group, before transferring from the D main into the C main, where he finished 10th on the opening night of competition, Anderson managed to find more speed on night two, timing 32nd and placing eighth in his heat race.

Starting out of position eight for the C main, Anderson attempted to make the best of the tricky track conditions; however, struggling to find speed, he narrowly missed out on a B-main transfer spot, coming home in fifth place.

“Despite having had some mixed results, being able to race in America was a wonderful opportunity for me and one that I won’t forget any time soon,” Anderson commented.

“I can’t thank Steve and Karen (Watt) enough for their hospitality and for allowing me the opportunity to race their car. This campaign was a huge team effort and I’m very grateful for the support I received. Having made some great connections and friendships during my time in America, hopefully this experience is something I can look at repeating next year.”

Anderson’s next hit out will be this Saturday night’s third Eureka Garages & Sheds Series round at Warrnambool’s Premier Speedway in Victoria.

Anderson would like to thank the following 2017-18 season sponsors: Latrobe Valley Bandag, WASP Steering & Suspension, D&F Racing Products, Foster Chassis, Fuchs Lubricants, Bockman Batteries, KRE Race Engines, Middy’s Data & Electrical, Maxwell Industries, and Townsend Service Centre.

To find out more about Anderson and his team, visit their website at www.grantanderson.com.au or LIKE them on Facebook by searching Anderson Motorsport #37.