PHOENIX, Arizona -- Scott Rally Team clinched the second place spot in the group 2 championship at the SCCA Oregon Trail Pro Rally in Hillsboro, Oregon on July 12-13. This race did not come without challenges considering the tragic circumstances.

"We had a difficult time staying focused after the tragic accident that took place during the first special stage. We thought much about our comrades Mark Lovell and Roger Freeman," said driver/owner Brian Scott. "On behalf of Scott Team our sincere condolences go out to the friends and family of Lovell and Freeman. They will be missed by all."

Scott Team ran the remainder of the Oregon Trail without any major difficulties. The team is becoming more comfortable running the Ford Focus on the unpredictable trails. This was a very important race for Scott Team in terms of points standing. The results of this race gave them a good position going into the next race.

"This rally got our momentum going and our comfort level with the car really increased. We fought with Burmeister on every stage and traded times both days so this was a very close rally," said Scott. "We need to continue this trend into Maine Forest Rally. I am confident that we can continue building our point standing with each race."

This is the third season for Scott racing, which includes driver Brian Scott, co-drivers Dave Hackett and Ed Wahl, crew chief Ed Hale and Troy Crabbtree.