(April 5, 2024) Gastonia, NC – In a thrilling showcase, Eric Riggins Jr. of Charlotte, NC, demonstrated his prowess on Friday night at Carolina Speedway, securing his 21st career victory in the United Sprint Car Series (USCS) event. Riggins engaged in a fierce battle with Ricky Stenhouse Jr., the 2023 Daytona 500 winner, ultimately emerging victorious in a captivating race.
Trading the lead with Stenhouse early in the race, Riggins showcased his racing finesse by executing a winning pass on lap 19, propelling him to the front of the pack. Despite Stenhouse’s determined efforts, Riggins maintained his lead to clinch the checkered flag, marking a memorable triumph at Carolina Speedway.
Riggins’ victory added to the excitement of the 2024 USCS season, with the driver becoming the ninth different winner in the first ten races of the series. Stenhouse secured a commendable second-place finish, with Ryan Roberts, Lance Moss, and Johnny Bridges rounding out the top five.
Terry Gray, a 15-time USCS National Champion, showcased his experience with a sixth-place finish, while Ricky Peterson of Rawson, OH, impressed with a seventh-place result. Brandon Grubaugh, Jeff Oliver, and Danny Smith completed the top ten, with Smith earning the Wilwood Brakes Hard Charger of the Race Award after starting 20th.
Prior to his victory in the main event, Riggins displayed dominance throughout the evening, securing pole position for the main event by winning the Hoosier Racing Tire Speed Dash and triumphing in the Westhold Third Heat Race.
The race saw intense competition, with Stenhouse briefly taking the lead on lap six before Riggins reclaimed the position. With two laps remaining, Riggins extended his lead over Stenhouse, ultimately crossing the finish line with a 1.442-second margin of victory.
The USCS action continues at Cherokee Speedway in Gaffney, SC, on Saturday night, promising more thrilling races and fierce competition for fans to enjoy.
Feature Results
- Eric Riggins Jr (1)
- Ricky Stenhouse Jr (2)
- Ryan Roberts (6)
- Lance Moss (3)
- Johnny Bridges (9)
- Terry Gray (4)
- Ricky Peterson (12)
- Brandon Grubaugh (8)
- Jeff Oliver (17)
- Danny Smith (20)
- Brandon Simpson (11)
- Luke Hill (10)
- Brianna Lawson (7)
- Joe Larkin (14)
- Jeff Willingham (15)
- Bob Auld (16)
- CJ Miller (5)
- Biscuit Williams (21)
- Matt Luck (18)
- Camden Jackson (19)
- Kevin Heavner (13)
