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(Bruce Velo Photography)

Tommy Tarlton Focused On Winning Johnny Key Classic

By Gary Costa

Easton, CA – (August 26, 2009) – Tommy Tarlton will have his sights set on becoming victorious this Saturday night at Ocean Speedway during the 49^th Running of the Johnny Key Classic that will be held at Ocean Speedway. Tarlton has been on fire in the GLR Investments 360 Sprint Car Series winning three main events this season. Tarlton's last victory came in a wild finish that came down to the wire just beating out point leader Brent Kaeding.

"That was a wild race. I'll tell you, I'm really pumped up about the Johnny Key. Our car has been fast, and the guys have found something that makes this thing scream every night out," Tarlton said. "I really like our chances going in. It's definitely not going to be easy, but I will be standing on the gas I can tell you that."

Tarlton, is currently sitting second in the point standings, and is also looking to wrestle the top-spot from Kaeding. The pair has been dicing with each other for most of the season, charging through the pack and putting the fans on their feet.

"Brent is tough competitor, but he's also fun to race," he said. "It seems like when we get next one another, it quickly becomes a dogfight out on the racetrack. I have a lot of respect for him and the other competitors that I race with."

The Tarlton & Son, Inc, Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino No 21 Maxim, picked-up wins in GLR competition on May 15, June 26, and most recently August 14. During last years running of the Johnny Key Classic, Tarlton finished second and will be looking to improve his position by one spot. Tarlton is quick to admit that winning the Johnny Key Classic is something that he would be extremely proud of and honored to put on his resume.

"Everyone wants to win the Johnny Key Classic. There's just so much history involved with this race," he said. "We came close in last year's race. We ended up with a second place finish. We are going to go out there and give 110% effort and let the chips fall where they may."

There's a lot on the line this weekend with Tarlton sitting only four points behind point leader Kaeding. With only four races remaining in GLR Investments competition, and the way that the point structure is, Tarlton knows that it's go time, and he must remain consistent through the next four races.

"Any of these guys can win this series, and can bite you real quick. Evan Suggs (third in points) is right behind me, and is a great competitor. This series is so stout, that when the green flag drops, you have to go…there is no waiting," Tarlton explained. "It's a balancing act really. You have to drive hard every lap, and put it on the ragged edge….but you don't want to go over it either. Just talking about racing has got me pumped…I'm ready to go right now!"