(April 26, 2024) Lavonia, GA – In a night filled with adrenaline-pumping action, Zack Mitchell of Enoree, S.C., asserted his dominance by leading every lap of the $5,000 Carolina Clash Super Late Model Series event at Lavonia Speedway. Mitchell’s stellar performance marked his second win of the season and his 14th career triumph in the Carolina Clash Series, breaking a victory drought since his last win on September 3 at Cherokee Speedway in Gaffney, S.C.
Despite fierce competition from pole-starting Ryan Gustin of Marshalltown, Iowa, who made a rare Carolina Clash appearance, Mitchell held his ground, fending off challenges during laps 28-33. Gustin’s valiant efforts ultimately landed him a third-place finish after relinquishing the lead to Ross Bailes. Gustin’s Cooney Motorsports team made a swift journey south after adverse weather conditions forced cancellations in the World of Outlaws Case Late Model Series events in Oklahoma and Kansas.
Ross Bailes of Clover, S.C., emerged as the runner-up, starting from the eighth position and trailing Mitchell for the final eight laps, finishing 1.185 seconds behind the leader. Notable performances included Kenny Collins and Payton Freeman, each advancing four positions to secure seventh and eighth place, respectively. Series points leader Ben Watkins showcased his consistency by gaining four spots to round out the top 10.
The 40-lap race, punctuated by only two caution periods, unfolded with swift intensity, lasting 17 minutes. Cody Haskins unfortunately scratched from the feature lineup, narrowing the field to 25 competitors.
Mitchell’s victory was a testament to the collective effort of his team and sponsors, including Longhorn Chassis by Wells, powered by a Clements Racing Engine. Sponsors such as Eubanks Oil, Clary Hood, Inc., SoCar Chemical, and others provided crucial support, underscoring the collaborative nature of the racing community.
As clear skies graced the event with temperatures reaching 75°F, fans were treated to a spectacle of speed and skill on the track. With attention turning to the next series race at Cherokee Speedway in Gaffney, S.C., on April 27th, offering a $5,000 prize to the victor.
Results:
- Zack Mitchell (1)
- Ross Bailes (8)
- Ryan Gustin (4)
- Adam Yarbrough (2)
- Michael Brown (6)
- David McCoy (5)
- Kenny Collins (11)
- Payton Freeman (12)
- Dennis Franklin (9)
- Ben Watkins (14)
- Luke Morey (3)
- Jimmy Johnson (7)
- Dale Timms (10)
- Benji Hicks (15)
- Jordan Koehler (23)
- Carson Brown (17)
- David Yandle (20)
- Cla Knight (13)
- Adam Smith (18)
- Chris Chandler (22)
- Brad Basey (24)
- Galen Robinson (12)
- Blake Craft (16)
- Mark Greene (21)
