Katie Hagar ran third in her first race for NASCAR Drive for Diversity and Golden State Racing on March 21. Hagar hit the charts second fastest out of a field of 14 at Madera Speedway in practice. “The car is handling really well. Honestly I haven’t been so comfortable in a racecar like that in a long time. I’m excited for this year and work well with everyone on the team. My crew chief Frank Vincent brings a lot to the table with me, and for me. We’re already getting into a routine,” Hagar commented.
Hagar qualified third, out of a field of 14 late models at Madera in front of a capacity crowd in the 50-lap event in her #14 GSR. She worked her way up to sixth place after 10 laps.
With only two cautions, Hagar worked her way to third behind teammate Eric Schmidt. Rain descended upon the speedway and had to be restarted. With only two laps to go, the field dove into turn one when cars slid coming into the apex of the flat NASCAR sanctioned track. Hagar got hit in the left rear quarter panel causing her and two other cars to spin around. The caution flag was waved along with the checkered flag due to rain.
“I’m not disappointed in the results, I know that all the people see, but I was told I gave one heck of a show to the fans and everyone on the team is pleased with my performance tonight. I know there’s a win in me and this car by the end of the year. I know we can get one. I’m ready to come back next week and do the same thing,” Hagar stated after her debut.
