By Jim Haines
WINCHESTER, Va. (July 25, 2026) — Cole Dewease continued his outstanding 2026 campaign Saturday night, charging to the lead early and driving away to win the Virginia Sprint Series and Laurel Highlands Sprint Series co-sanctioned RaceSaver IMCA Sprint Car feature at Winchester Speedway.
Dylan Shatzer and Matt Mullins shared the front row for the caution-free main event, with Shatzer taking the early advantage while Mullins and Dewease settled in close behind.
Dewease wasted little time moving into second before making the winning pass on lap five. Once out front, the Fayetteville, Pennsylvania driver expertly navigated lapped traffic while Shatzer gave chase.
Behind the leaders, Mullins battled with Donnie Hendershot and A.J. Barton throughout the race, but none of the challengers could mount a serious threat as Dewease maintained control to the checkered flag.
Shatzer finished second while Mullins completed the podium. Hendershot charged from 10th to fourth to earn hard charger honors, and Barton rounded out the top five.
Dewease and Mullins won the evening’s heat races.
The Virginia Sprint Series and Laurel Highlands Sprint Series return to action Saturday, Aug. 1, at Hagerstown Speedway for another RaceSaver IMCA Sprint Car event.
