By Nick Robbins
PAIGE, Texas (Apr. 11, 2026) — The Southern Touring IMCA Modified Series presented by On Demand Shirts rolled into Cotton Bowl Speedway, marking the first visit for the Karl Kustoms IMCA Modifieds in 2026. Nineteen drivers signed in for the $1,000-to-win, 20-lap feature, and perseverance quickly became the theme of the night as pop-up showers gave the track an unexpected dose of last-minute moisture. The CBS crew remained undaunted, and drivers were quickly back on track to help pack the surface once the showers ended.
Friday’s runner-up, Jared Maupin of San Antonio, struck first by taking the win in DIY Equipment Sales and Rental Heat One. Johnny Torres, also of San Antonio, claimed Sundowner Performance Diesel Heat Two, while G.W. Egbert from Salado grabbed another victory in 3-D Landscaping and Irrigation Heat Three.
Maupin led the field to green in the 20-lap feature with Torres, Egbert, and Whiteaker Jr. in tow. The early laps saw the field begin to spread out as the top four attempted to break away. Racing throughout the field allowed the leaders to reach lapped traffic by the halfway point. Maupin worked quickly to build a cushion while navigating slower cars. Whiteaker Jr. used the traffic to his advantage, getting around Egbert to mount a late charge in a thriller that went flag to flag.
Ultimately, Maupin held on to win his second STIMS race of the season, becoming the first repeat winner of 2026 while also picking up his third victory in the GRT Race Cars South Central Region this year, all behind the wheel of the Rick Pollaro-owned no. 96.
The race was a Fast Shafts All-Star Modified Invitational qualifier for the Speedway Motors IMCA Super Nationals fueled by Casey’s. Maupin was already eligible following his March 14 win at Texana Raceway Park with the STIMS Series.
Whiteaker Jr. finished second, followed by Torres, Beaver, and Egbert to round out the top five.
