Baja

The Menzies Motorsports crew recently rolled into San Felipe with high expectations of what would transpire in the hours to come. The SCORE International series was under new ownership, and in turn, sported new rules and regulations. Although the change of ownership brought with it uncertainties, there was one thing that hadn’t changed. Bryce Menzies was there with one thing on his mind – victory.

Leaving the starting line in one-minute Intervals, Menzies tackled what had traditionally been known as the “roughest” section of the Baja immediately with three drivers in front of him. Experience would obviously prove essential during the entire race, but the years under his belt would prove key during this first section of the course. The decisions of when to push his Red Bull/Menzies Motorsports truck and when to lay back early-on would inevitably be huge at the race’s end.

Menzies and his co-rider, Pete Mortensen, had already managed to pass B.J. Baldwin by the mile-38 marker, and had the others leading the field in their sights. In fact, Menzies found himself in a heated battle with Mark Weyrich for the physical lead148 miles into the race.

Nearing the dry lake bed, Weyrich had a flat, and Menzies took the lead. In front of the field of competitors, the driver proceeded forward, never looking back. With only 30 miles left in the event, Menzies was challenged by Gustavo Vildolosa. Not willing to accept anything but a win, the driver made a mad run, crossing the finish line as the “unofficial winner” and less than four seconds ahead of Vildolosa.

But “unofficial” was the key word on this particular day. Unfortunately, the higher-powers slapped a five-and-one-half minute penalty on Bryce Menzies for straying off course to avoid Dan McMillin’s dust as he neared mile 89. It was rumored that several other drivers took the same route without any repercussion, but the decision had been made, and Menzies Motorsports officially had to settle for second place.

Referring to the call, Director of Team Logistics/Marketing Office Manager, Dane Raney, said, “It’s in the past, but we wish the rules were more clear and concise. We took this as fuel for our competitive fire. We won’t lay down. We’re going after the championship. We try and prepare for every scenario with our crew that consists of employees and volunteers. It takes more time and effort, but that, and a good driver help us win races. Referring to the importance of the team, he continued, “They are important to everyone who is involved… We work hard to win races, but also respect everyone and help anyone who needs it along the way.”

When asked what separates them from their competitors, he said, “Practice – practice – practice, preparation – preparation – preparation. Not to mention, an incredible driver really helps.” With a strong work ethic and an “incredible driver” on board, Menzies Motorsports is also a firm believer in the importance of keeping their rigs in tip-top running condition. That in mind, they are strong advocates of keeping their engines running free of dust and other foreign debris.

“Maintenance is key,” ensured Raney. “These trucks have to be meticulously maintained if you want to run up front with the fast guys. The Trophy Truck class will not have a winner with a truck that hasn’t been prepared correctly. The races are far too hard on the vehicles. We are lucky to have Pete Mortensen, who is one of the best in the sport.”

Referring to their filtering needs, he continued, “We use a bunch of K&N products. Desert uses a 16-inch filter with filter oil, seal grease, pre-wraps and power cleaner. Short-course uses a 14-inch filter with filter oil, seal grease, pre-wraps, as well as carb gaskets. We’ve been using K&N products since Bryce’s first buggy in 2007. K&N has been an industry leader for as long as I can remember,” he explained. “Brands come and go, but K&N has hung around. And that is a testament to having great products year-in and year-out. K&N has aided Menzies Motorsports in gathering both desert and short-course championships in years past. These trucks are constantly beat up, and K&N’s product never fails.”

When asked what fans can expect for Menzies Motorsports throughout the remainder of the season, Raney, replied, “First and foremost, we would like to thank our fans for all of their support over the years.We wouldn’t be doing what we’re doing if it wasn’t for them. Winning races leads to our ultimate goal of winning championships. In the words of Ricky Bobby,’If you’re not first, you’re last’.”

K&N has performance products for many on and off-road vehicles. Use the K&N application search to find the right performance part for your vehicle, then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.