The last time Cody Coughlin raced at Salem Speedway in Indiana was on June 21, 2013 where he collected his second JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour victory en route to the championship.
This Sunday he returns to the high banks for his second ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards start in the Venturini Motorsports-prepared No. 55 JEGS Toyota Camry in the Federated Auto Parts 200 presented by Crunch ‘N Nutter.
“I am really looking forward to returning to Salem Speedway,” Coughlin said. “It is a fast high-banked oval that we found success at last year in my Late Model. This time, we are coming back to make our second ARCA Racing Series start and we're ready to run up front again.”
Coughlin feels more confident after he gained valuable seat time last month at Mobile International Speedway in Mobile, Alabama where he finished 13th in his first ARCA start. He raced amongst the leaders and gained valuable experience in the heavier ARCA racecars than he had been accustomed to racing in the past.
“Mobile was a new experience as I was in a new style car racing at a track for the first time. This time I feel more mentally prepared,” Coughlin explained. “I have a good feel of my ARCA car now and I am going back to a track that is familiar to me.”
Earlier this month, Coughlin had the opportunity to test at Salem and was pleased with his results.
“Our test went pretty good, our lap times were close to my Venturini Motorsports teammates John Wes Townley and Justin Boston,” Coughlin said. “The biggest thing I learned was that things are more noticeable with a heavier car, especially going around the high banks. I was used to going around the track in a lighter Late Model car, and the heavier car really changed my driving style.
“The key thing for me on race day will be to take care of the car and keep all of the fenders on it. If we do that, I can’t see why we cannot go away with a strong top-five finish.”
The Delaware, Ohio pilot is grateful for the opportunity he is getting this weekend at Salem Speedway.
“The support and advice I have received so far from Joe Gibbs Racing and everyone at Venturini Motorsports has been awesome,” Coughlin said. “It was great to be at the test with Townley and Boston to get their thoughts. I think overall as a team, we are ready for this weekend.
“I also have to thank my mom (Di), dad (John) and my sister (Kennedi) for their support so far this year. They have been very supportive and have given me some great motivation heading into my second ARCA event.
“I also have to praise God for everything he has given us. We are truly blessed for the opportunities that we have had so far this year.”
On track action for Coughlin will get underway on Saturday, April 26th with the first practice session from 12:00-12:45pm ET. The final practice session will be from 1:15-2:00pm. Menards Pole Qualifying Presented by Ansell will get underway at 3:30pm.
On Sunday, April 27th, Cody will be part of a pre-race autograph session from 11:30-12:30pm. The Federated Auto Parts 200 presented by Crunch ‘N Nutter’s green flag will wave at 2:15pm.
For more information on Cody Coughlin and Team JEGS, visit www.teamjegs.com and follow Cody on Twitter, @cody_coughlin. Follow Team JEGS on Twitter, @TeamJEGS and “Like” JEGS Performance on Facebook.