Scott Barnes made an encouraging start in his quest for a third straight title in the Skusa Winter Series at the AMR Homestead-Miami Motorplex in Florida.

With only one other rival competing within the Shifter Masters class across the first two rounds of the series, Barnes took full advantage to put early points on the board.

The opening weekend did not pass without some misfortune as the 39 year-old sealed victory in the first heat race and final on Saturday, only to later be disqualified from the latter due to breaching rear-width restrictions.

Undeterred, Barnes returned a day later, finishing second in the heat before going on to take the chequered flag in the final.

While disappointed to not have more competition within the class, he was content with being able to seize an early initiative in the points standings.

“Unfortunately there was only two drivers in the Masters class this weekend, but thankfully they added us to the field of the Pro Shifter class so we were able to still get some good racing in,” said Barnes.

“The disqualification was disappointing and it’s frustrating to make a mechanical mistake, but it was pleased to wrap up the weekend with victory in the second round final.

“Overall it was a great start to the series and I leave the opening rounds leading the standings with a good points lead.”

Despite suffering the disqualification in the first final heat, Barnes is confident it will not hinder his title challenge with drivers allowed to drop their worst round of the four-round series, which concludes on February 9 to 11 at the same venue.

“It shouldn’t affect things too much because we’re able to drop our worst round at the end of the series, so hopefully I’ll come back next month and get some more good results,” added Barnes.

“I’m looking forward to getting back to Florida for some more racing and hopefully completing that three-peat.”