Alger, WA – The opening nights of the Jim Raper Memorial Dirt Cup at Skagit Speedway lived up to their reputation for intense racing and thrilling finishes. On Thursday night, Zeb Wise of Rudeen Racing emerged victorious, claiming both the win and the highest points tally in a spectacular showcase of dirt track racing.
The 30-lap main event, offering a $5,000 prize and crucial points towards Saturday’s A Main lineup, saw five different leaders showcasing their skills. Colby Thornhill led the charge for the first ten laps until Willie Croft took over on lap 11. Croft held the lead until lap 19, when defending champion Justin Sanders surged to the front on lap 20. However, Sanders’ lead was short-lived as Corey Day briefly took command on lap 22, only to surrender it back to Sanders a lap later due to tire issues from his aggressive racing style against the high cushion and wall. Sanders maintained control until lap 24, when Zeb Wise executed a methodical climb through the field, using the middle groove to perfection, and ultimately claimed the lead on lap 25. Wise held onto his position to secure the victory, with Sanders and Tanner Holmes rounding out the podium.
The night showcased impressive performances across both classes, with Trey Starks setting the pace in qualifying for the 410 Sprint Cars. The heats were fiercely contested, with DJ Netto, Corey Day, Tyler Thompson, and Greg Hamilton each claiming victories. Dominic Gordon triumphed in the B Main, highlighting the depth of competition in the field.
As the excitement from preliminary night settles, anticipation builds for the culmination of the Jim Raper Memorial Dirt Cup. With drivers demonstrating skill, determination, and a hunger for victory, Saturday promises to deliver another thrilling chapter in dirt track racing history.
For fans and participants alike, Skagit Speedway continues to be a premier venue where the spirit of competition and the thrill of speed converge, setting the stage for unforgettable racing moments.
Results 30 Laps:
- Zeb Wise [12]
- Justin Sanders [11]
- Tanner Holmes [10]
- Justyn Cox [4]
- Jason Solwold [15]
- Corey Day [5]
- Justin Youngquist [3]
- Greg Hamilton [24]
- Willie Croft [1]
- Cam Smith [22]
- Dominic Gorden [21]
- DJ Netto [23]
- Robbie Price [9]
- Colby Copeland [17]
- Cole Macedo [8]
- Nick Parker [20]
- Lane Taylor [19]
- Caeden Steele [18]
- Hunter Schuerenberg [14]
- Eric Fisher [13]
- Colby Thornhill [2]
- Devon Borden [6]
- Jesse Schlotfeldt [7]
- Trey Starks [16]
