SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (April 3) – 2019 Bad Boy Mower IMCA Modified champion James Thompson came charging from his eighth starting spot, survived three-wide action for the lead along with a late-race caution and a strong run by Trevor Drake in the closing laps in taking the season points opener at the Quick Quarter of the multi-groove Springfield Raceway Saturday night.
Thompson, who changed his traditional black color scheme to a bright red, was able to bring a couple of new sponsors into victory lane.
During the long green run just past the half way point, Thompson opened up a half straightaway advantage as Drake was searching for a lane that would allow him to close the gap.
Drake seemed to find that sweet spot in turns one and two to begin reeling in Thompson but the leader would get that back in turn 3.
Josh Dugan brought out a late race caution as he spun in turn 1 after just missing the cushion and was lucky enough to keep the car off the wall barrier and only ended with a flat tire. He would return to action.
On the restart, Drake swung wide to the top in turn one and looked like things were going to get very close, but Thompson hit his marks perfectly in turn three and was able to pull some ground on the fast-moving Drake.
Early contender Bobby Pearish, Jake Asbell and Trenton Simon completed the top five.
IMCA Modified action presented by Bad Boy Mowers continues Saturday, April 10 as the IMCA Modifieds compete in a $500 to win, $50 to start feature.
Pit gates open at 2:30 p.m. with check-in cutoff set at 5:30 p.m. and racing action at 6:30 p.m.
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