BUDDS CREEK, Md. – In a spectacular show of skill and strategy, Derick Quade from Mechanicsville, Md., clinched his first victory of the season at the Potomac Speedway last Saturday, capturing the 49-lap Danny Garrett Memorial. Steering his famed Longhorn no.74, Quade not only led the race from start to finish but also secured a significant $3,999 prize, marking his 34th career feature win at Potomac.
Starting from the front row, Quade capitalized on his advantageous position right off the bat, taking the lead in the opening lap and maintaining it through all 49 circuits. The race saw its fair share of challenges from competitors like Kyle Hardy, Kenny Moreland, Kyle Lear, and Walker Arthur, the latter of whom finished second. Despite fierce competition, Quade's performance remained unmatched throughout the evening.
Tire wear became a notable factor as the race progressed, with Quade's right rear tire deflating as he approached the victory lane. Reflecting on the close call, Quade shared, "With about five to go, I could feel it starting to go down, and I was hoping we could hold on." He added, "The crew has this car so good, I think sometimes it could drive itself, but we wouldn't be here without all of them and our sponsors; this is a good way to start the season."
Other notable performances included Michael Carter, who started 12th and managed to secure a third-place finish, while Kyle Lear and Kenny Moreland rounded out the top five. The heat races prior to the main event saw wins from Quade, Moreland, and Hardy among a competitive field of 27 cars.
In other racing categories, the Street Stock division celebrated a new victor as second-year driver Jason Penn claimed his first career feature win at Potomac. After taking the lead from Mason Hanson on the third lap, Penn held on to finish first in the 15-lap main event. "We work on this thing sometimes until 11 o'clock at night during the week to get ready, and a big thanks to everybody who helped get us here tonight," Penn commented post-race.
The evening also witnessed first-time winners in the support classes. Owen Lacey triumphed in the 15-lap Hobby Stock feature, while newcomer Kelly Crouse earned his first division feature win in the Strictly Stock main. Additionally, veteran Larry Lamb celebrated his first division feature victory in the Roadster contest.
This season opener at Potomac Speedway not only provided thrilling races across various classes but also set a high bar for the upcoming racing season, showcasing both seasoned champions and emerging talents in the motorsport community.
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