|
Chris Dolack
CONCORD, N.C. (January 31) - A Commissioner Potestas confirmed the decision of the World Racing Group Appeal Commission regarding a penalty to World of Outlaws Late Model Series driver, Scott Bloomquist, issued at The Dirt Track @ Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord, N.C., for the event on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009.
As part of a routine post qualifying inspection that retained the tires of the top six qualifiers, the tires from two of the top six indicated a reasonable suspicion of treatment. Tire samples were collected and acknowledged in a classic evidence chain of custody procedure. The samples were submitted to a respected southeastern lab for analysis. The lab determined the tire used by Bloomquist was significantly altered and contained the presence of chemicals not found in the control tire(s) or part of tire chemistry. Following the report from the lab, Bloomquist was disqualified for all events, levied a fine equal to his winnings and suspended from DIRTcar and World of Outlaws events for six months.
As a member of DIRTcar, Bloomquist appealed the penalty to the World Racing Group Appeals Committee. The committee met in December and heard testimony from the officials and Bloomquist. In a unanimous decision, the independent panel reduced the overall penalty by reinstating his win in the events on Nov. 6 as the illegal tire was from qualifying for the Nov. 7 event.
The World Racing Group Appeal process offers a second appeal to the Chairman Potestas, who reviews the process and serves as the final authority. Bloomquist appealed to the Chairman. The Chairman confirmed the Commissions decision.
The Appeal Commission determined Dec. 12, and the Commissioner Potestas affirmed yesterday, penalties should be:
* The loss of purse and award earnings from Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, in the amount of $1,350.
* A penalty of $1,350.
* A six (6) month suspension from Nov. 7, 2009, to May 7, 2010.
* The loss of 1,000 championship points.
Bloomquist will be eligible to compete in World of Outlaws Late Model Series and DIRTcar Racing events beginning May 8, 2010.
|
