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Scott Free Racing Battles Engine Trouble to Finish 5th in Hometown at the 40th Annual Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix

This past weekend, Scott Free Racing returned to their home waters for the 40th Annual Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious stops on the powerboat racing calendar. As a hometown race for the team, it was a special event with the added excitement of racing in front of friends, family, and a passionate local fanbase. The Mod V class saw a massive turnout of highly competitive boats, promising intense battles and thrilling action on the water.

The team entered the race with high hopes, confident in their preparation and eager to make a statement at one of the season’s most anticipated events. However, Sarasota’s bumpy waters had other plans. Conditions proved to be challenging right from the start, as the usually calm Gulf of Mexico served up choppy seas, making it a true test of skill and endurance for all the teams competing.

Unfortunately, Scott Free Racing's day took a tough turn almost immediately. Shortly after the green flag dropped, the team began to experience engine problems. What started as a minor issue quickly escalated, compromising the boat’s performance. Despite these setbacks, the team showed incredible determination, deciding to stay in the race and make every effort to complete the course rather than calling it a day.

With limited power and a damaged engine, Scott Free Racing was forced to limp through the race, fighting not only the mechanical issues but also the turbulent conditions. The strategy shifted from vying for a podium finish to simply making it to the checkered flag, a true display of the team’s resilience and grit. Despite the frustrations and difficulties, they continued to push through, keeping their sights set on crossing the finish line.

In the end, their perseverance paid off. Scott Free Racing managed to secure a 5th place finish, a respectable result given the circumstances. The hometown crowd was there to cheer them on every step of the way, recognizing the team's effort and commitment to finishing the race despite the odds stacked against them.

While it wasn’t the finish the team had initially hoped for, there was plenty to take pride in. The 40th Annual Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix will certainly be remembered for the challenges it presented, but also for the fighting spirit the team displayed on their home turf.

Now, with the Sarasota race behind them, Scott Free Racing shifts focus to the final race of the National Championship. The crew is already hard at work addressing the engine issues, determined to have their boat in peak condition for the season's finale. As they prepare for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the championship, the team remains committed to finishing the season on a high note and challenging for top honors.