LAS VEGAS — When the checkered flag waved on last year’s BITNILE.com Open Wheel Showdown at The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Aaron Willison savored the spoils of victory lane.
Runner-up Bobby Santos III watched the scene unfold. He had no reason to hang his head. He finished second in the biggest winged pavement sprint car race in the country and earned $20,000.
Santos has had nearly a year to think about what he could have done differently, and don’t think he hasn’t. He’s had an incredible year on the winged side of things and would like nothing better than to close out the year with an Open Wheel Showdown win and a hefty $50,000 payday that comes with it.
The Massachusetts native returns this year with lessons earned and hoping to finish one spot better.
“I’ve thought how I can be better for that race this year,” explained Santos. “I feel confident we’re gonna bring a better car this year. I feel there’s no doubt I’ll have a shot at winning the race this year. That’s what I’ve thought about. I look forward to this race. It’s one you circle on the calendar when the schedule come out.
“The track wasn’t what I expected last year. In my mind I didn’t bring the best piece I could have. Knowing what I know about the race track now, I’m confident I’m gonna bring myself a decent car this time,” Santos continued. “You learn some things about a race track that when you go for the first time you don’t know until you find out. From the race car standpoint, I’m more confident with what I’m bringing this time.
“I will have the same car this year, just different set-up stuff. I underestimated the size of the track last year to be honest. We’re going in a little bit different direction than last year set-up wise.”
Santos acknowledged the track was different than he anticipated.
“The track is a little bigger than I expected. It also races a little bigger than I expected,” he explained. “A bigger engine might help earlier in the night during qualifying. But when we start battling a bigger engine won’t mean as much in my opinion. Last year it was so chilly the grip stuff didn’t work. I’m hoping they apply it a little higher this year to help create a second groove of racing.
“I’m excited my car owner Dick Fieler will be there with us this year. Hopefully I can get a win for him. There’s always an emphasis on getting a win when Dick’s there because he puts so much effort into this program. I couldn’t ask for a better car owner honestly. He puts very minimal pressure on me. Putting an effort on getting the win for Dick will be important to me.”