8th Annual BRL Shootout Recap
23 September 2023
Bootleg Racing League | 8th Annual Shoutout | Southern National Motorsports Park | Late Model Stock
BRL’s 29th Birthday
During the live qualifying round of the highly anticipated 8th annual Stone River Shootout, the skilled driver J R Shepherd impressively secured the pole position, with James Tiernan following closely behind in second place and Matt Hoose taking the third spot. The race started off with a thrilling burst of excitement as the top three drivers quickly fell into a single-file racing pattern. However, the high energy was quickly disrupted by a quick caution on lap two. Despite this, Shepherd managed to maintain his momentum and had a great start after the restart, with Hoose attempting to pass Tiernan but ultimately settling back into the original qualifying order. As the race progressed, most of the track soon settled into single-file racing by lap 12, with all drivers trying to preserve their tires for later in the race.
By lap 32, Shepherd and Tiernan had managed to establish a comfortable lead of two seconds over the rest of the pack, with both drivers racing within two-tenths of a second of each other since the last restart. This lead between the top two extended to an impressive three seconds by lap 46, before a caution was called. The race resumed on Lap 53, with Shepherd once again taking a great start, followed closely by Tiernan and Spies retaining his third spot. Despite a big wreck on lap 61 that brought the race to a short pause, Mark Hertzog made an impressive maneuver to avoid the crash. Lap 68 went green and the top three drivers remained the same, but another chain reaction wreck caused a slowdown. The green flag was thrown again at lap 73, with Spies attempting to pass Tiernan but ultimately coming up short. An uncalled caution caused some intense mix-up of cars briefly, but the top three remained the same. A caution was flown for an unrelated incident on lap 78, and racing resumed on lap 84. However, a caution quickly came out at lap 85 with some cars fighting over real estate. Racing resumed on lap 91, with Shepherd taking the lead and Spies trying to pass Tiernan but ultimately coming up short a second time. Shepherd powered through and ran strong to take the win and his 4th Shootout win, followed by Tiernan in second place and Spies in third.
Overall, both Shepherd and Tiernan managed to dominate the race, but Shepherd proved to be the ultimate victor due to his impressive speed and skill. Although the top three remained consistent throughout the race, the rest of the field had a more dynamic race with numerous cautions and intense battles for positions. Looking ahead, the next season starts on Friday, September 29, at New Smyrna Speedway with the return of the BRL original Friday night race of the Outlaw Modified Series for Round 1 of its 33rd season.
BRL LM S23R11 Recap
16 September 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 23 | Round 11
Late Model Series | Five Flags Speedway
The much-awaited culmination of the Gargamel’s Kitchen Late Model Invitational Season 23 was marked by the 300th broadcast of Virtual Grip Network (VGN), and it did not disappoint. The legendary J R Shepherd clinched his 17th Late Model Season Championship with relative ease, having established a significant lead in points.
The race began with Joe Segalla and Ruben Altice in the front row, but second place quickly fell to Joseph Snyder. Further back, tight racing through the rest of the top 10 allowed for side-by-side racing. Joseph Snyder then took the lead away from Joe Segalla, with Ruben Altice following closely behind. The first and only yellow occurred on lap 11.
Green flag racing went back underway on lap 16, with Joseph Snyder and Ruben Altice leading the pack. Donny Moore and John Wilson started creeping up into the podium positions, with J R Shepherd closely behind in 4th by lap 20. J R Shepherd then passed for the 3rd spot on lap 24 and had his sights set on the leaders of Snyder and Moore. On Lap 32, Donny Moore took the lead from Joseph Snyder, bringing J R Shepherd closely behind in second. J R Shepherd then took the lead on lap 35 and retained it through the rest of the race.
The race was riveting, with several side-by-side racing moments before it eventually settled into a single-file race around lap 41. However, the intensity picked up again with an exhilarating fight for positions as tire wear became a factor, leading to J R Shepherd’s 10th triumphant victory of Season 23. John Wilson secured a commendable second position, while Lowell Jewell finished a respectable third on the podium.
Fans can look forward to the upcoming season, Season 24 Round 1, beginning at New Smyrna Speedway on September 30th at 8:55 pm ET in the Gargamel’s Kitchen Late Model Invitational, exclusively on Virtual Grip Network!
BRL LM S23 R10 Recap
09 September 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 23 | Round 10
Late Model Series | North Wilkesboro Speedway
In yet another impressive performance, J R Shepherd of Different Path Motorsports secured his ninth victory of the season at North Wilkesboro Speedway in the Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitational Series presented by Gargamel’s Kitchen. The race night kicked off with Rubin Altice taking the pole position, while Shepherd started from the 11th position.
Bryan Dehn displayed remarkable speed early in the race, swiftly closing the gap on the leader within the first ten laps and eventually taking the lead, breaking away from the chasing pack. Meanwhile, Shepherd quietly and carefully maneuvered his way through the field, entering the top five within the initial 20 laps.
Dehn continued to command the race, maintaining a comfortable lead over Todd Liston, who occupied the second position. However, unexpected cautions disrupted Shepherd’s strategy, prompting him to accelerate his move for the lead much earlier than planned.
With 30 laps left in the race, Liston and Dehn engaged in a fierce battle for the lead, presenting Shepherd with a prime opportunity. Shepherd seized the moment, diving low and passing Dehn on the inside to claim second place. A few laps later, Shepherd completed his ascent to the front, overtaking Liston on lap 68 to secure the lead.
From that point onward, Shepherd held onto the lead and gracefully crossed the finish line, taking the checkered flag once more. His performance has earned him a commanding 80-point lead over Matt Shinoski, establishing him as the unofficial Season 23 champion.
The official coronation of Shepherd as the champion will take place after the season finale, scheduled for next week at Five Flags Speedway on September 15th. Be sure not to miss the action, as it will be broadcast live at 8:55 PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network!
BRL LM S23 R9 Recap
26 August 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 23 | Round 9
Late Model Series | Hickory Motor Speedway
In the Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitational Series presented by Gargamel’s Kitchen, J R Shepherd from Different Path Motorsports once again demonstrated his prowess by claiming victory at Hickory Motor Speedway. The event commenced with Bruce Pearson securing the pole position, while Shepherd embarked on his challenge from the 9th spot on the grid.
The race was characterized by frequent caution periods, which disrupted the flow of the drivers and limited their ability to establish a consistent rhythm. The track conditions posed challenges for the competitors, particularly with loose handling cars, leading to several short green flag runs followed by more cautions.
Amidst this dynamic and unpredictable environment, Pearson and Joseph Snyder engaged in a battle for the lead, with their rivalry unfolding through restarts. However, Shepherd, operating under the radar, steadily progressed through the field, managing to climb to 3rd place within the initial 20 laps.
On lap 66, Shepherd executed a decisive maneuver by moving to the outside of Pearson, enabling him to secure the race lead. He maintained his position at the front for the remainder of the event, ultimately triumphing in a thrilling Green-White-Checkered (GWC) finish.
With this victory, Shepherd further solidified his position at the top of the championship standings, enjoying a substantial 66-point advantage over his closest competitor, Matt Shinoski. As the series progresses to its final stages, Round 10 is scheduled for September 9th at North Wilkesboro Speedway. Fans and enthusiasts can experience all the action live at 8:55PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network.
BRL LM S23 R8 Recap
19 August 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 23 | Round 8
Late Model Series | Southern National Motorsports Park
In a remarkable turn of events, Michael Goodman put an end to J R Shepherd’s unparalleled winning streak this season by clinching victory at Southern National Motorsports Park in the Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitational Series presented by Gargamel’s Kitchen. The race saw John Wilson start from the pole position, with Goodman taking his place in third and Shepherd positioned further back in 12th.
As the opening ten laps unfolded, Goodman executed a masterful maneuver, surging ahead of Wilson by navigating the outside line, effectively seizing control of the race. Meanwhile, Shepherd embarked on a determined charge through the field, advancing to the second position by the 30th lap and subsequently applying pressure to Goodman, who led the pack.
For the ensuing 70 laps, Goodman displayed exceptional skill by maintaining his racing line, effectively thwarting any attempts by Shepherd to capitalize on potential openings. Despite Shepherd’s relentless pursuit, Goodman adeptly retained control over the race, making it exceedingly challenging for his competitor to mount a successful challenge.
As the laps gradually ticked away, Shepherd made several valiant efforts to overtake Goodman, each of which proved unsuccessful. Ultimately, as Goodman completed the final lap, he clinched the checkered flag, bringing an end to Shepherd’s dominant winning streak.
Notably, Shepherd holds a commanding lead in the point standings, boasting a substantial 50-point advantage over his closest contender, Matt Hoose, in second place. As the series progresses, anticipation builds for Round 9, slated for August 26th at Hickory Motor Speedway. Racing enthusiasts can catch all the action live at 8:55 PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network.
BRL LM S23 R7 Recap
12 August 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 23 | Round 7
Late Model Series | South Boston Speedway
J R Shepherd of Different Path Motorsports continued his sensational streak, clinching his 7th victory of the season in the Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitational Series presented by Gargamel’s Kitchen at South Boston Speedway. The race marked Shepherd’s determined pursuit of the elusive “perfect BRL season,” an achievement that has captured the attention and admiration of fans everywhere.
The reigning champion, Jeffery Hardin, began the race from the pole position, while Shepherd started further back in 11th place. The initial half of the event was marked by caution periods, slowing Shepherd’s progress through the field. However, his persistence paid off as he methodically worked his way to the front. After a hard-fought battle with Hardin, Shepherd managed to wrest the race lead away on lap 45, showcasing his remarkable skill and determination.
The second portion of the race witnessed an uninterrupted green flag run until lap 98 when a late-race caution prompted a dramatic GWC (Green-White-Checkered) finish. Shepherd masterfully capitalized on the final restart, maintaining his lead under pressure to cross the finish line and secure another triumphant win.
With this victory, Shepherd has established an impressive 48-point lead over Matt Hoose in the championship standings. His commanding performance not only cements his position at the forefront of the series but also underscores his status as a true force to be reckoned with on the track.
As the season continues to unfold, the anticipation builds for Round 8, scheduled for August 19th at Southern National Speedway. Racing enthusiasts can catch all the action live at 8:55 PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network. Shepherd’s pursuit of a perfect season promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the next exhilarating chapter of this thrilling competition.
BRL LM S23 R6 Recap
05 August 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 23 | Round 6
Late Model Series | Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway
J R Shepherd of Different Path Motorsports delivered an awe-inspiring performance at the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway in the Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitational Series presented by Gargamel’s Kitchen. Despite starting from the 13th position, Shepherd’s journey through the race was nothing short of a triumphant display of skill and determination.
The race itself began in a flurry of excitement and chaos, with multiple wrecks occurring in the opening laps, causing the early exit of several unfortunate drivers. Amidst the turmoil, Joe Segalla commenced the race from the pole position, facing intense pressure from his teammate Tre Blohm. While the front of the pack was engaged in heated battles, Shepherd quietly began his ascent through the field.
With each lap, Shepherd showcased his remarkable ability to navigate through traffic, steadily advancing towards the front of the pack. By the time 42 laps were completed, Shepherd had maneuvered his way to the tail end of Tre Blohm’s car. In a bold and skillful move, Shepherd executed a pass that left Blohm in his wake and secured Shepherd’s position in second place.
However, Shepherd’s ambitions were far from fulfilled, as he had his sights set on the race leader, Joe Segalla. As the laps continued to unfold, Shepherd meticulously closed the gap between himself and Segalla. The tension in the air was palpable as Shepherd made his move on Segalla, diving low and asserting his dominance to claim the lead.
From that point onwards, Shepherd’s performance was characterized by both precision and domination. He demonstrated an impressive command over his car, navigating the track with a combination of finesse and sheer determination. With every passing lap, Shepherd continued to expand his lead, leaving the competition in his rearview mirror.
As the race neared its conclusion, Shepherd’s lead was insurmountable. He maintained his position at the front of the pack, unchallenged and unrivaled. With the checkered flag in sight, Shepherd crossed the finish line, securing his victory with flair.
This exceptional win marked Shepherd’s sixth consecutive victory in as many races this season. His remarkable record speaks volumes about his talent and commitment to excellence. With such an impressive showing, Shepherd has firmly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitational Series.
As the season progresses into its second half, Shepherd’s commanding lead in the points standings is a testament to his skill and consistency. With Round 7 scheduled for August 12th at South Boston Speedway, racing enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing Shepherd’s continued pursuit of greatness. The action-packed event will be broadcast live at 8:55 PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network, offering fans an opportunity to witness Shepherd’s quest for dominance on the track once again.
BRL LM S23 R5 Recap
29 July 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 23 | Round 5
Late Model Series | The Bullring at Las Vegas
In an awe-inspiring display of racing prowess, J R Shepherd with Different Path Motorsports showcased his sheer dominance in the Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitational Series at The Bullring at Las Vegas, claiming an incredible 5th consecutive victory!
As the race commenced, Joe Segalla started from the pole position and valiantly led the pack for the initial 16 laps before having to yield to Todd Liston, who surged ahead to take the lead. Liston, displaying remarkable pace, managed to build a significant gap between himself and the rest of the field, while Shepherd, starting from 11th, skillfully worked alongside his teammate, Austin Boelke, to navigate through the traffic and make his way up the ranks.
Boelke made a decisive move on lap 67, deftly overtaking Liston to snatch the lead, with Shepherd following closely in 2nd place. With the finish line in sight and only 22 laps remaining, Shepherd seized a golden opportunity and made a daring maneuver under Boelke to claim the lead for himself.
However, drama ensued in the closing stages of the race, as a late-race caution emerged on lap 97, setting the stage for a heart-stopping Green-White-Checkered finish. Undeterred, Shepherd unleashed his driving prowess and secured his position at the front, crossing the finish line with the checkered flag in a stunning display of skill and determination.
Meanwhile, Liston refused to back down, executing a daring move under Boelke in the final moments to reclaim 2nd place in a thrilling side-by-side battle at the line.
With this monumental triumph, Shepherd continues to showcase an exceptional season, firmly establishing himself as the leader in the championship standings, leaving his competitors in awe of his relentless winning streak.
The anticipation builds for Round 6, scheduled for August 5th at the renowned Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway. Tune in at 8:55 PM ET, exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network, to witness the adrenaline-fueled action and see if Shepherd can maintain his remarkable momentum or if a challenger will rise to dethrone the unstoppable force!
BRL LM S23 R4 Recap
22 July 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 23 | Round 4
Late Model Series | Stafford Motor Speedway
In a thrilling race at Stafford Motor Speedway, J R Shepherd of Different Path Motorsports secured a hard-earned victory in the Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitational Series presented by Gargamel’s Kitchen. The race featured Joe Segalla starting on the pole alongside Matt Hoose in the front row, while Shepherd began from the 11th position.
At the start, Hoose quickly took the lead from Segalla and continued to lead the field. Meanwhile, Shepherd made steady progress through the field, eventually reaching the second-place position by lap 46. Shepherd kept the pressure on Hoose, trying to find an opportunity to pass, but Hoose held his ground and refused to make any mistakes.
As the laps counted down, Shepherd maintained the pressure on Hoose, and on lap 80, he made a bold move to the outside. Lap traffic added to the excitement as Shepherd and Hoose battled side by side for 11 intense laps. The two drivers approached a 3-wide situation with a lap car, which forced Hoose down the track, allowing Shepherd to seize the lead.
With only a few laps remaining, Shepherd held on to the lead and crossed the finish line to take the checkered flag. This victory extended Shepherd’s lead in the point standings, now 14 points ahead of Mike Goodman.
The next round is scheduled for July 29th at The Bullring at Las Vegas, and fans can catch all the exhilarating action live at 8:55 PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network!
BRL LM S23 R3 Recap
15 July 2023
Bootleg Racing League | Season 23 | Round 3
Late Model Series | USA Speedway
In a thrilling race at USA Speedway, J R Shepherd of Different Path Motorsports emerged as the victor in the Bootleg Racing League Late Model Invitational Series presented by Gargamel’s Kitchen. With Bruce Pearson starting on the pole position, Shepherd faced a challenging task as he began his race from 11th place on the grid.
Right from the start, Pearson found himself under intense pressure as the green flag waved. Both Matt Hoose and Michael Goodman were eager to make their move and challenge for the lead. However, Pearson skillfully maintained his position, creating a slight gap between himself and his rivals. Meanwhile, Shepherd steadily made his way through the field, gradually advancing towards the front.
As the race progressed, Kenny Kibbey made a remarkable charge, swiftly gaining five positions and breaking into the top five by the sixth lap. On lap 24, Goodman made a decisive move, overtaking Pearson to claim the lead, with Kibbey following closely in second place. In the second half of the 85-lap event, Kibbey intensified his pursuit of Goodman, while Shepherd continued his relentless climb through the ranks.
Shepherd’s tenacity paid off as he maneuvered past Jeffery Hardin to secure third place. Meanwhile, Kibbey kept the pressure on Goodman, ultimately executing a daring low dive into turns 1 and 2 to snatch the lead on lap 50. With just 11 laps remaining, Shepherd closed the gap to Goodman and swiftly moved into second position. Determined to secure the win, Shepherd continued his relentless charge, ultimately overtaking Kibbey to claim the lead just four laps later.
Shepherd held his ground in the final six laps, skillfully navigating the track to cross the finish line and take the checkered flag. With this impressive victory, Shepherd solidified his position at the top of the points standings, now 11 points ahead of Goodman.
The next round of the thrilling Late Model Invitational Series is set to take place on July 22nd at Stafford Motor Speedway. Racing enthusiasts won’t want to miss a moment of the action, which will be broadcast live at 8:55 PM ET exclusively on the Virtual Grip Network.













