Phibbs Adds to Huge Lead at Saugus

Just like clockwork, Dave Phibbs of Simi Valley won another main event at Saugus Speedway on Saturday night, adding to a Sportsman Division points lead that stood at more than 70 when the night began.

Phibbs had the fastest qualifying time and then pulled the No. 2 starting position before passing Jerry Bosson of Simi Valley on Lap 12 of the 30-lap race and cruising to a quarter-lap victory before a crowd of 3,604.

“It’s still a thrill any time you win,” Phibbs said. “I can’t remember how long it’s been since I’ve started out in front. Usually I pull something like 17.”

Despite the huge lead in points, Phibbs knows he has plenty of work ahead of him.

“We’ve only had half our races,” Phibbs said. “It’s quite a lead but I don’t think it’s over yet.”

Steve Burdett of Sylmar finished sixth but was disqualified for an illegal carburetor, according to track officials. The carburetor has been confiscated for inspection and Burdett, 26th in the standings entering the night, was also forced to forfeit a heat-race victory Saturday.

Dan Press of Frazier Park passed Jim Vermillion of Moreno Valley on Lap 13 to win the 40-Lap Modified main event. Points leader Glen Cummings of Highland finished second, followed by Vermillion.

“He thought it was safe to drift up and I got down low and passed him,” said Press, who is fifth in points.

Brian Kelly of Arleta won the 15-lap Hobby Stock figure 8 main event.