Fallbrook resident finishes first among UTV drivers at Del Mar Fair

Sean Backus has competed in off-road racing but did not compete in utility task vehicle competition prior to the June 22 race. The race was part of the San Diego County Fair, and the Fallbrook driver finished first among the UTV drivers in his first run.

"Super proud," Backus said. "Super surprised."

The UTV competition utilizes timed runs, and each driver had one run in the early afternoon and one run in the late afternoon. Backus completed his first run in 37.347 seconds. Vista driver Casey Sims had the second-fastest time of 37.844 seconds.

"That was good. We were concerned about the shocks...