By Gary Thomas
WATSONVILLE, Calif. (June 5, 2026) — The Karl Kustoms IMCA Modifieds showcased some of their best racing of the season Friday night at Watsonville Speedway, with multiple grooves in play and side-by-side battles throughout the 25-lap feature.
Jonathan Hagio led the opening three circuits before Salinas driver Robert Marsh took command. Although Marsh built a sizable advantage out front, the action remained intense behind him as drivers traded positions lap after lap around the quarter-mile oval.
Marsh stayed smooth and steady to secure his second DeVilbiss Racing Chassis Western Region victory of the season and first Watsonville Speedway triumph of 2026.
Bobby Hogge Jr. finished second, followed by Markus Frazier, Logan Drake, and Fred Lind.
Wagner Charges from Tenth for SportMod Victory
The Karl Kustoms IMCA Northern SportMods also delivered plenty of excitement despite several caution periods slowing the pace.
Chris Smith led the opening stages before mechanical issues on lap 13 forced him to the pit area, handing the lead to reigning Watsonville Speedway champion Danny Wagner.
The Bay Point driver, who started 10th, took advantage of the opportunity and raced away to score his third victory of the season and second at Watsonville Speedway in 2026.
Jeff Bentancourt put together an impressive run from 11th to finish second. Max Baggett crossed the stripe third, Shane Freeman finished fourth, and Trent Golden rounded out the top five.
Duane Bieser earned hard charger honors with a notable drive from 17th to sixth.
Stone Dominates Stock Car Main Event
The Sunoco IMCA Stock Cars produced some of their strongest racing of the year, with several three-wide battles entertaining fans throughout the field.
Despite the intense competition behind him, Winton’s Paul Stone was in a class of his own at the front. Starting fifth, the Merced Speedway promoter methodically worked his way to the lead and dominated the 20-lap feature, crossing the finish line nearly 10 seconds ahead of the field.
The victory was Stone’s seventh EQ Cylinder Heads Southern Region triumph of the season and his third at Watsonville Speedway.
Fellow promoter Rob Gallaher finished second, while Anthony Giuliani completed the podium in third. Justin Villanueva crossed the stripe fourth and Jake Archibald rounded out the top five.
The event was broadcast live on IMCA TV affiliate Stars On Dirt TV. Catch every lap again with the IMCA TV Replay Subscription, available for $25.99/month, and don’t miss Season 2 of the Boone docuseries, streaming exclusively on IMCA TV.
