Story by Chris Roy
This year Melissa Fifield has made the change from Allison cars to Modifieds. I asked her what made her decide to race Modifieds rather than PASS Super Late Models or the ACT Late Models? Her response, “I have always loved Modifieds and dreamed about racing in the Valenti Modified Racing Series.”
There is approximately 17 modified races this season all across New England, and the Pine Knoll race team is hoping to make them all. “I really like the amount of races but, wish there was a race in Maine. I am looking forward to running at tracks that I’ve never been to.” Though the one race Melissa is most looking forward to is in Lee. “My favorite track is Lee USA Speedway since it is my home track and it’s a great racing facility.” The VMRS returns to Lee Speedway on June 29th.
I asked Melissa if the she was all set for the 1st race of the season at Waterford Speed Bowl? With an enthusiastic smile, “The car is ready, but we need spare parts. And we need to go testing!”
There is a lot of work that goes into the setup of the race car and, the setup changes from track to track. Every good driver needs a good pit crew to keep the car on the track, so I asked Melissa if she had a good team this season, “I do, but with the new car we will need more crew members at the races.”
Race drivers are always willing to lend a hand to help out their fellow competitors which is one thing you find at every race track. Modified racing drivers Jacob Dore, and Max Zachem, have offered to give Melissa some help in the VRMS.
One of Melissa’s hopes is entering into the “Driver Diversity Program” in the future. Though she wasn’t accept this year they suggested she get more seat time in a full size car, which she will have the conclusion of this season.
Though winter is here and the snow is on its way, the Pine Knoll Race Team, is still working on getting ready for the 2012 race season. Melissa will be on hand to sign autographs throughout the weekend Jan 6th -8th at the Northeast Motorsports Expo, presented by Mainely Motorsports TV, in Augusta, Maine.