The event was blogged live at the team's website and Facebook fan page and attracted more visits and comments then any other race in the team's history. "Reports and pictures kept coming in from Canidae as we watched the live tracking at Best in the Desert. We saw them making their way forward through the pack, doing better and better as the race went on. They even lost a cylinder part way through and just kept right on making great time and passing other teams. It was exciting and we're all really happy for the crew," said Marlon Coffman, long time supporter of the team.
Driver Whipple started the race with navigator Patrick Gailey. They managed to turn in a smooth and consistent performance, battling through the pack and gaining on the leaders despite a flat fire. At mile 289 co-driver Scott Gailey took over for Whipple and despite a dead cylinder on the team's 800 HP 454 Dougan small block, he managed to push the truck hard and claim a top 10 finish and a 5th place in class.
Gailey found himself battling not only the course and the other drivers, but also the sun as the team made the decision earlier to not take the additional pit time to attach their normal night-time lighting. As the sun drew closer to the horizon, the team wasn't sure Gailey would be able to cross the finish line before the lack of proper lighting became an issue. Fortunately, he beat the sun and crossed with time to spare.
At the end of race day, Whipple commented, "What an awesome day. We have the best crew who worked together as a team flawlessly. Interviews are over and we're loading up so we can celebrate! Thanks to all of you who support us and cheered us on!"
Next up for Canidae Racing is the BlueWater Desert Challenge on October 14 to 16 in Parker, AZ.
Canidae Racing is supported by Canidae Pet Foods, Lucas Oil, BFGoodrich Tires, Magnaflow Exhaust, KC HiLites, Torco Race Fuels, Tap It Brewing, JE Pistons, Fox Race Shox, Geiser Bros. Design & Development, K&N Air Filters, Racepak, CalTex Freight, McKenzies, Specialty Fasteners, XRP Hoses and Fittings, Norco Tires, and GET Performance.
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Founded out of love for pets and animals, Canidae Natural Pet Food Company manufactures and distributes a complete line of healthy meat-based, holistic, natural dog food, cat food, and gourmet pet treats. Canidae products are sold worldwide through independent pet food retailers including over 7,000 locations throughout the United States and Canada. A trusted brand since 1996, the most recent information about Canidae and its line of healthy pet products is available by visiting www.canidae.com.
