Holding the “Big Gator” championship trophy and his nephew Owen Larson (son of Kyle Larson), Brad Sweet is all smiles as is his fiancé Rachel. [Joe Jennings Photo]
Barberville, Fla. – In the final night of World of Outlaws Craftsman Sprint Car Series action at the Volusia Speedway Park, Brad Sweet won for the second time in three races on the fast half-mile track. In addition, he came away with the overall Big Gator championship by scoring the most points in five events, including the two Arctic Cat All-Star Circuit of Champion races.
Driving for Kasey Kahne Racing, Sweet started in the front row alongside Joey Saldana. The two battled it out initially but Sweet couldn’t be denied, pulling away and not to be challenged again.
“This is a motor track and our car was fast,” the winner said. “You want to start off the year like this, but there are still 90 races to go. We gave Joey a good run, but the lapped cars made it difficult. Once I got out front, I was able to set the pace. It was a great week for us, and we did have a fast car which helped our luck.”
Team owner Kasey Kahne was all smiles in victory lane, saying, “I don’t get to see them race that often, and it is good to see them start the season off so strong. Brad has always been fast here and KKR always brings fast cars. We have enjoyed racing at this place.”
For KKR, it claimed its second consecutive Big Gator trophy with Daryn Pittman taking it in 2015. Lucas Wolfe came from fifth to second with Saldana winding up third.
Sixth through 10th were Sammy Swindell, Shane Stewart, Donnie Schatz and the Blaney brothers, Dave and Dale.
In the DIRTcar UMP Modified feature, Brian Ruhlman led all 20 laps to win it. He was trailed by Jacob Hawkins and Austin Dillon.
The DIRTcar Nationals continue this week when the Big-Block Modifieds take to the track.
