Karam, competing for the first time this season for Sam Hunt Racing, ran up front all day in the No. 24 Toyota Saturday at Road America and nearly pulled off an upset win.
Instead, despite briefly being in the lead during the second of two overtimes, Karam veered off track when he encountered a slick left turn caused by a spilled fluid. Nevertheless, he was able to recover and achieve a career-best fourth-place finish.
Sam Hunt Racing had a momentous day, with Kaz Grala, Karam’s teammate, finishing in seventh place.
Karam, whose diverse racing background includes the IndyCar and the Nitro Rallycross series, made his 20th series start on Saturday. His previous best finish was fifth last year at Daytona. He’s also made one start in NASCAR’s Truck series.
“I have come to the conclusion that I desire to be present here on a full-time basis. This is the objective I have been striving for, and I have been pursuing my aspiration of becoming a stock car driver,” expressed the 28-year-old individual from Nazareth, Pennsylvania, following the race. “This marks my twentieth race in Xfinity, allowing me to gain valuable experience.”
“When everything falls into place, positive outcomes can be achieved. Today, everything fell into place and the team provided me with an excellent car. Our Toyota performed exceptionally well. It greatly simplifies the driver’s task when all the necessary elements align, allowing me to solely concentrate on driving.”
“I didn’t have to be concerned about making pit stops or anything similar. It was solely about maintaining focus and driving. It was a true race, which is what I thoroughly enjoy. I went all out – just pure speed.”
Sage Karam, Alpha Prime Racing, RichMar Florist/Green Line Automotive Chevrolet Camaro
Photo by: Nigel Kinrade / NKP / Motorsport Images
Hunt, the team owner, called Saturday’s race “a really special one.”
“We were on the verge of achieving our first victory. We are steadily approaching our goal,” he expressed. “I am extremely grateful to everyone who contributed to making this weekend possible. Our prospects are very promising.”
Since 2015, Karam has not been a fulltime participant in a significant motorsports series like IndyCar. However, he has been making efforts to participate in an increasing number of NASCAR races in recent years.
Saturday’s race was an important confidence builder, not only because he was in equipment with which he could contend, but he also showed he had to ability to run up front and challenge for a win against the Xfinity Series’ best.
“It has been an incredibly enjoyable weekend. It has been an absolute delight, and I am optimistic that this will open doors for future prospects,” expressed Karam. “Engaging in a competitive struggle alongside those individuals at the forefront is truly exhilarating.”
“I cannot reword.”
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