Morris Holds Off Hibdon For Third IMCA Modified Win Of 2025

By Ben Deatherage
(Photo Courtesy of AOM Creative)

Casa Grande, Arizona (January 31, 2025) — Troy Morris III secured a hard-fought victory in the IMCA Modified feature at Central Arizona Raceway during the Ernie Mincy Memorial Early Thaw, earning his third Western Region win of the season and second consecutive triumph. The Bakersfield, California driver had to withstand intense pressure from Kollin Hibdon on the final lap and during a late-race restart to capture his fourth career Early Thaw series victory.

Starting from the pole n the twenty lap contest, Morris launched into the lead at the drop of the green. Meanwhile, the battle for second was fierce, allowing Morris to extend his advantage. Hibdon and two-time defending Early Thaw champion Chaz Baca Jr. traded the runner-up spot multiple times, with Hibdon surging from fourth to second before Baca briefly reclaimed the position. However, Hibdon solidified himself in second as the race progressed.

A caution with twelve laps completed eliminated Morris’s lead and set up an intense eight-lap shootout. Morris got a great restart, and although Hibdon gave chase, the leader appeared too strong. Just as the race was winding down, Morris brushed the turn four wall coming to the white flag, giving Hibdon a final opportunity to challenge for the win.

Despite the late scare, Morris held on to beat Hibdon to the finish line and claim the victory.

Hibdon settled for a strong second-place result, with Baca completing the podium in third.

Woodie Claims First IMCA Stock Car Win in Two Seasons

The Sunoco IMCA Stock Car feature saw Shelby Williams take control early after battling Kaden Woodie for the top spot. The Texas racer set a torrid pace and appeared to be on his way to victory until mechanical issues forced him to retire with five laps remaining, handing the lead to Woodie.

The Milaca, Minnesota driver capitalized on the opportunity, pulling away to secure his first Stock Car win in two seasons. It also marked his first career Early Thaw series victory and his first EQ Cylinder Heads Southern Region triumph of 2025.

North Dakota’s Jason Storbakken finished second, while Iowa’s “Wahoo” Mike Albertsen rounded out the podium in third.

Peery Prevails in Northern SportMod Thriller

The IMCA Northern SportMod feature delivered plenty of action, with Mark “Bud” Martini pacing the field early before California’s Ryan Peery took control on lap three.

Peery, from Yreka, California, had to endure multiple challenges on restarts, as Martini made several attempts to reclaim the lead. While Martini managed to pull alongside Peery on occasion, he couldn’t find the drive off the corners to complete the pass.

Peery held strong to secure his fourth win of the season and his third career Early Thaw victory, tying him with Joe Docekal and Cam Reimers for the most all-time wins in the event’s history.

Martini claimed a solid second-place finish, while reigning IMCA Junior National Champion Payce Herrera edged out Jorddon Braaten at the wire to claim third.

The event was broadcast live on Speed Sport TV.