After an eight-year absence, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series made a thrilling return to New Hampshire Motor Speedway for the EJP 175. The stakes were high as the race also served as a playoff elimination event, with only eight drivers advancing to the second round. The race promised drama, and it delivered, highlighted by Corey Heim’s commanding performance, multiple on-track incidents, and strategic battles that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Key Highlights
Corey Heim started on pole and led the majority of the race, sweeping both stages.
Chandler Smith and Ty Majeski were key contenders, fighting for position and playoff survival.
Multiple early cautions occurred, including incidents involving Tanner Gray, Brent Cruz, Connor Mosak, and Ben Rhodes.
Christian Eckes made significant progress after starting at the back due to unapproved adjustments.
Heim tied Greg Biffle’s single-season record with his ninth win of 2025, further cementing his dominant season.
Early Drama and Aggressive Racing
From the drop of the green flag, New Hampshire delivered high-intensity racing. Corey Heim, starting on the pole, took control immediately, but the opening laps were chaotic. Contact in turn one led to a multi-truck incident involving Tanner Gray, Brent Cruz, Connor Mosak, and Ben Rhodes, bringing out the first caution. Drivers were aggressive, aware that every position could make a difference in their playoff aspirations.
Christian Eckes, Tyler Tamasi, and Derek White had to start at the rear due to unapproved adjustments, but Eckes quickly showcased his skill by advancing from the back to 20th place early in the race. The field navigated multiple restarts, heavy traffic, and the unique challenges of New Hampshire’s track layout.
Corey Heim and Team Excellence
Corey Heim’s day was defined by precision and speed. His truck was reportedly excellent, and his communication with crew chief Scott Zipadelli was seamless. Zipadelli praised Heim’s maturity, discipline, and talent, highlighting the driver’s ability to anticipate and react to the race in real-time. Heim led the first 56 laps, captured both stages, and handled multiple restarts and traffic situations flawlessly.
Other drivers also demonstrated strategy and skill. Ty Majeski, the 2024 Truck Series champion, used preparation and advice from Cup Series driver Josh Barry to navigate New Hampshire’s tricky bumps, especially in turn three. Majeski’s confidence allowed him to focus on race-winning opportunities rather than simply surviving the track. Chandler Smith battled fiercely to remain in contention, pushing hard for every position and learning from previous restarts.
Multiple Cautions and Strategic Battles
The race featured frequent cautions, keeping teams and drivers on edge. Incidents included spins and collisions involving Daniel Hemric, Jason Alexander, Connor Jones, Derek White, Tony Breidinger, Matt Crafton, and others. These cautions created opportunities for strategic pit stops, with some drivers adjusting air pressure or making minimal changes to maintain their pace.
Andres Perez and other contenders like Lane Riggs and Gio Rogerro battled for track position, with drivers often racing three and even four wide on restarts. Ty Majeski, despite his skill, experienced challenges in traffic, highlighting how short tracks like New Hampshire can test even the most consistent performers. Rookie drivers like Kaden Honeyut impressed, navigating difficult conditions while gaining experience in high-pressure situations.
The Historic Finish
Corey Heim’s dominance continued through the final laps. He maintained his lead despite pressure from Chandler Smith and others, taking the checkered flag in a decisive victory. With this win, Heim tied Greg Biffle’s 1999 record for most single-season Truck Series victories at nine. Heim led a total of 124 laps, underscoring his season-long mastery and putting a stamp on an already historic campaign.
The return of the Truck Series to New Hampshire was celebrated by fans, many of whom filled the grandstands and campgrounds to experience the excitement firsthand. The race showcased the energy, competitiveness, and unpredictability that make the NASCAR Truck Series a fan favorite.
News in Brief: EJP 175 Highlights: Corey Heim Ties Single-Season Win Record
The EJP 175 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway was a masterclass in speed, strategy, and resilience. Corey Heim’s commanding performance, combined with aggressive racing, strategic pit stops, and dramatic on-track incidents, made for an unforgettable return to the track. Heim’s victory and record-tying ninth win cemented his place in Truck Series history, while the playoff contenders continue to fight for a championship spot. Fans were reminded why New Hampshire is one of the most energetic and exciting venues on the NASCAR calendar, and the Truck Series’ comeback proved well worth the eight-year wait.
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