Ty Majeski Snowball Derby Triumph: In a high-octane showdown at the Snowball Derby in Pensacola, Florida, the drama unfolded as several contenders fell victim to a massive wreck on the frontstretch, altering the race dynamics dramatically. With less than 25 laps remaining, a tussle between Stephen Nasse and Bubba Pollard for the lead resulted in a collision, paving the way for Ty Majeski to claim the top spot with under 10 laps left.
Amidst the chaos and a second red-flag to clear debris, Majeski seized the opportunity with a strong restart, fending off Gio Ruggiero, who impressively rallied back despite being two laps down earlier in the race. The checkered flag waved in favor of Majeski, securing his second Snowball Derby victory in the past four years, adding another jewel to his racing crown alongside his current NASCAR Truck Series endeavors with ThorSport Racing.
Reflecting on the thrilling win, the 29-year-old from Wisconsin highlighted the challenge of the Snowball Derby, stating, Winning this race demands more speed than you can imagine. We were solid in the long runs today, gaining significant strength towards the race’s end. We seemed to be closing in on Nasse before that pivotal caution with about 20 to go.”
Under the circumstances, it boiled down to a short burst. We tweaked the car for improvement, but its uncertain if we could have overtaken Nasse in a short run. Anything’s possible in the Snowball. You’ve got to be in contention when the moment strikes, right? It was an intense duel between Nasse and me, a battle among top-tier drivers and machines.
Travis Braden clinched third place, followed by Cole Butcher in fourth, while Matt Craig rounded out the top-five finishers. Nasse made an impressive recovery to secure sixth position after the late-race incident, whereas Pollard concluded with a 19th-place finish.
A major wreck, triggered by an issue with Noah Gragson’s car, saw NASCAR notables like William Byron and Erik Jones caught up in the chaos, sidelining them from contention in the final stages. Gragson encountered difficulties engaging gear, slowing abruptly before being turned into the frontstretch wall, setting off a chain reaction of events that led to the race’s first red flag.
In the last chance qualifier, Preston Peltier showcased a winning performance, claiming victory in the race that was rescheduled due to inclement weather. Peltier, alongside John Boles, Timothy Watson, and Ryan Moore secured their spots in the main event.
Carson Kvapil initially secured a transfer spot but was disqualified in post-race inspection, granting Moore the ticket to the main event.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Who won the 2023 Snowball Derby?
Sunday evening at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Florida did not witness a Dale Earnhardt-winning-the-Daytona-500 moment. Bubba Pollard’s wait for that moment will continue for another year. However, the 2023 Snowball Derby was won by Ty Majeski, who secured his second title.
What were the results of the Snowball Derby?
Following the second red-flag of the race to remove debris from the track, Majeski made a strong restart with only seven laps left. Despite facing competition from Gio Ruggiero, who was two laps behind at one point in the race, Majeski emerged victorious in the 56th annual Snowball Derby at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Fla.
Who does Ty Majeski drive for?
Ty Majeski now competes full-time for ThorSport Racing, following three years of part-time competition in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
Has Bubba Pollard won the Snowball Derby?
Bubba Pollard is a legendary driver who has dominated Pro Late Model and Super Late Model racing with an impressive 32 wins at 5 Flags Speedway. Despite his incredible track record, he has yet to claim the coveted Snowball Derby title.
