Tarlton wins first Key qualifier

Tommy Tarlton makes the turn midway through the first Johnny Key qualifying race on Friday at Ocean Speedway at Watsonville. (Glenn Cravens/Register-Pajaronian)

WATSONVILLE — Tommy Tarlton held on to first place for most of Friday night at Ocean Speedway at Watsonville, and he finished in first place in the Ocean Sprints race presented by Taco Bravo.

This race had a little bit more meaning, as it was the first qualifier for the Johnny Key Classic.

The win means Tarlton, the 2010 series champion, secured one of the starting positions for the Aug. 25 race.

“The Key is always a great race to be a part of, and I’d love to win it again,” he said.

Tarlton made sure he wasn’t challenged much throughout the race and held firm after several caution flags went up.

For the complete article see the 06-30-2012 issue.

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