Race Two started with more promise as Houk moved up from 14th to eighth in the early stages. Unfortunately, the team ran into a problem when the air filter failed, causing a dramatic loss in engine power. Houk became frustrated while being passed repeatedly, and in trying to fight back hard, made what he later admitted as a “poor judgment call” going into Turn Five which ended his weekend early.

“The good news is that I’m back inside the top 10 in points, and we made real progress with the car this weekend,” said Houk. “The car felt great in Race One, and the pace was right where we needed it to be. I'm excited to carry that momentum forward to Mid-Ohio next weekend, especially after our best road course qualifying yet.”

The Road America weekend was made extra special for the team due to a variety of friends and family making the trip to rural Wisconsin.

“I even got to meet some new fans,” said Houk. “I love having folks come by the trailer in the paddock to say hello and check out the car, and it’s always great to have more people cheering for me! Big thanks to the Pence and Hrubes families for providing lunches to our team; your generosity is so appreciated and makes a real difference during long race weekends.

“I also want to give a huge thank you to my team. Everyone worked incredibly hard all weekend in brutal heat to give me a fast, competitive car, and then turned around and put it all back together after the incident in Race Two so it’s ready to go again for Mid-Ohio. Their effort and commitment mean the world to me.

“Next stop: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, one of my favorite tracks and a place I’ve had success in the past. It’s always a blast racing there, especially over the Fourth of July. We’re looking forward to a great weekend ahead!”