story and photo by Maxwell Patrick Imagery

          Nearly five months after being sidelined by a horrific accident during his midget racing Debut at The Chili Bowl Nationals, Ashton would make his return to midget racing. Under the guidance of former Chili Bowl Champion Tanner Thorson, Ashton would show a strong presence in his first running with the Xtreme Outlaw Midget Series at Humboldt Speedway in Humboldt,KS. Ashton would drive the Rowdy Energy, Smith Titanium Stanton Racing Engine Powered #28 midget. Running fast time in his group during both hot laps and qualifying, he would roll off 4th place in his heat after a 4 car invert. During his 10 lap heat race Ashton would cross the finish line in 2nd place. The Strong showing would land him a start on the outside pole in the nights feature event. Ashton would come out strong, only to have a few caution flags halt his efforts. He would ultimately lead 21 laps in the feature before dropping down to a 3rd place finish after a late caution restart. The Following  night we headed over to 81 Speedway in Park City,KS. Ashton would once again come out strong  running quick time in his group. Not much passing occurred in the heat races, which lead to mid field starting position the nights feature event. Ashton ended up finishing 11th and rolled the car in the hauler in one piece. Overall a successful weekend racing in the midwest!  We would like to thank Tanner and Shay Thorson for having us out and look forward to more midget racing in the future! Next up for Ashton and his brother Austin they return to the micros for a special race benefiting St Judes Children's hospital at Dixon Speedway in Dixon,CA on May 13th.