BRL LM S22 R9 Recap

03 June 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 22 | Round 9
Late Model Series | Hickory Motor Speedway
Photograph By: Michael Goodman

Jeffery Hardin, representing Loose Luggs, emerged as the victor in the Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitational Series presented by Gargamel’s Kitchen at Hickory Motor Speedway. The race saw John Wilson, racing for Team CDR, start from the pole position, while Hardin began the race in 7th place.

Wilson held the lead for the first six laps until Bruce Pearson managed to make a move to the inside and overtake him for the top spot. The race was marked by a high number of cautions, which provided frequent restarts and aided Pearson in maintaining his lead going into the second half of the race.

Stephen Spies and Jason Menda engaged in a side-by-side battle for 2nd place, with Hardin patiently positioned behind them in 4th, waiting for an opportunity to advance. On lap 58, Spies seized an opening and dove low to take the lead from Pearson. Menda and Hardin followed suit, advancing to 2nd and 3rd positions respectively.

Menda put pressure on Spies lap after lap and managed to take the lead on lap 78. However, his lead was short-lived as Hardin maneuvered his way past Menda, going for the top spot. Menda attempted to block Hardin in the corner but the contact resulted in Menda spinning and undoing his progress, allowing Hardin to claim the lead with 15 laps remaining.

Hardin displayed his signature patient and calculated driving style for the remainder of the race, fending off challenges from Spies and Adam Schoen. With a caution coming out on lap 97, the race concluded under yellow flag conditions, and Hardin secured the victory.

With this win, Hardin maintains his lead in the point standings, now sitting 24 points ahead of Joe Segalla with two rounds remaining in the season. The next event is scheduled to take place at South Boston Speedway on June 10th, and fans can catch all the action live at 8:50 PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network!