Ferguson wins season-opening ESMCS event

Saint John driver has spirited battle with Watson

Mark Ferguson of Saint John, N.B., picked up right where he left off in 2017 by winning the Doc Dawson’s Enterprises season opener for the Eastern Super Mini Cup Series (ESMCS) at Oyster Bed Speedway on Monday.

Ferguson started on the front row of the nine-car, 20lap feature, but would only win the feature by inches after a spirited battle with reigning Series champion Matt Watson of Miscouche.

The pair would put on an incredible battle for the victory after a late-race caution placed them on the front row for a restart.

While Watson took the quick advantage on the restart, Ferguson never relinquished the pressure on the No. 88 car.

After an unsuccessful attempt to pass Watson, Ferguson was able to make the top side of Watson work.

His final move was made coming off Turn 4 as they passed under the checkered flag.

“I thought I was in trouble (on that final restart),” said Ferguson in victory lane. “I figured if I could keep Matt pinned down to the inside that it would be my only shot. With a lot of hard work and a little bit of luck it all worked out for me.”

Watson was a late addition to the entry list for the seasonopening event.

Don Gaudet of Miscouche drove in the heat race, with Watson driving in the semifinal, which he won, and the feature.

Gaudet announced before the event his car had been sold, with the new owner taking to the track for the remainder of the season.

Jacob Dunlop was the surprise on the day.

Dunlop finished runner-up to Ferguson in the opening heat race on the day, and was the bridesmaid to Watson in the semifinal.

Prince Edward Island drivers Dave Griffin and rookie Randy Wilson completed the top five in the 20-lap feature event.