Lexus Takes the Win in Baja 1000

Perhaps one of the most troubled years in recent history for Japanese manufacturer Toyota is slowly fading away, as we approach 2011. Small, but important achievements like winning the Stock, Full-sized trucks of the Baja 1000 race do nothing but make Toyota remember it will probably be an important player on the market for years to come.

One of the cars sent by Toyota to race in the 1,061-mile desert course, the Lexus LX 570 driven by Joe Bacal and sponsored by the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, managed to win in the aforementioned category. Despite problems, unavoidable in such a race, Bacal's team was always confident it will end up on the podium, if they managed to finish the race.

“It’s a testament to the durability of Lexus and the contributions of a great team, including the outstanding Long Beach Racers,” said Bacal. “We also have an amazing group of sponsors such as BF Goodrich and King Shocks that provide bullet-proof go-fast parts. Plus, the Cancer Treatment Centers of America has my back.”

Bacal and his Lexus had to battle a loose wheel, an engine restart issue, communication difficulties and many other mentally and physically challenging problems, but in the end they manged to overcome all. Even if, at times, it all seemed impossible.

“This one was a nail-biter—a real test for everyone,” added Bacal. “But my team stayed with it and we got ourselves back in the race. With the problems behind us we just flew to the finish line.”