LaJoie Wins Battle, Martin Wins War
Randy LaJoie got the thrill of his life and Mark Martin got $225,000 after the last of four True Value Firebird International Race of Champions events was held Sunday at Michigan Speedway.
LaJoie, defending Busch Grand National champion, brought his violet-colored car home first against 11 others in identically prepared, pastel-hued Pontiac Firebirds. He took the lead from CART driver Alex Zanardi after the second lap and led the remaining 48, averaging 164.271 mph for the 100 miles.
“It just means an awful, awful lot to me to win against these guys,” LaJoie said. “You know, to finish ahead of [Winston Cup drivers] Dale Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon and Terry Labonte is a big thrill for a short-tracker like myself.”
Martin, another Winston Cup veteran, collected the champion’s purse after finishing eighth in the race and first in the series.
Robby Gordon, who finished second, was also second in the series and won $100,000.
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