I've completed over 1400 of the 1800 events. This one has me stymied!

i can finish the Hunter race (3rd from the last) no better than Third Place. I've tried online, offline, hire agents or not. Tried running a few in the dirt to try to slowdown the bot. I've run flat-out, or only tapping brakes in 2-3 turns, or braking more to eliminate any skidding. I pass the red car easily without touching it, so that's not slowing me down. 

So what am I doing wrong. Car is fully serviced and fully upgraded. Any help would be appreciated. 

Thanks.