Ginest, Hager, Watts win at RPM

By Mike Hughes

HAYS, Kan. (May 24) – Nate Ginest, Garrett Hager and Tim Watts were first-time winners this season at RPM Speedway Saturday night.

The Golden Plains Trucking IMCA Northern Sport Mod 20-lap feature got off to a rough start as Michael Copper and Brandon Belvill crashed into the frontstretch wall on the opening lap. Both drivers were okay but done for the night. Jeremy Couse led the first two laps before a caution waved for a spinning Ryan Gier.

On the restart, Ginest shot to the lead and never looked back. Several cautions kept the field close and Tyler Frye stayed on the back bumper but could not make a pass and settled for the runner-up spot.

Brady Bencken led the first half of the 20-lap Rebel Tank Service IMCA Hobby Stock feature before Hager took the lead at the halfway mark. Hager was able to hold off a late charge by Ron Wehling to make his first trip to the winner’s circle with Monte Honas second.

Watts took the lead on lap three of the S & W Supply 20-lap IMCA Modified feature from Trent Gray and held on to make his first trip to victory lane this season. Rob Day started 11th and worked his way to second to challenge Watts but had to be content in the runner-up spot.

Jason Rogers score his second Advantage Glass Plus IMCA Stock Car feature win in a row at Hays. Jeff Tubbs was second.

Kiowa Higdon won his third Tom’s Machine & Welding IMCA Sport Compact feature in a row. He led all 12 laps for the win.

Racing returns to RPM Speedway on Saturday, June 7 with the regular five divisions in action and NASCAR veteran Ken Schrader will return to compete. Race time is 7 p.m.