Josh Berry secured the final transfer position for the 200-lap Cook Out Clash main event by winning the last chance qualifier (LCQ) on February 4 at Bowman Gray Stadium, showcasing a commanding performance that puts him and the No. 21 Ford in the 21st starting position. The Josh Berry LCQ victory highlighted a night of intense action as contenders battled for the remaining spots, eager to compete alongside top drivers in the highly anticipated NASCAR event.
Berry Dominates LCQ at Bowman Gray Stadium
At Bowman Gray Stadium, Berry pulled away from his competitors to claim the LCQ win by over seven seconds, easily securing his place in the main event. Behind him, the fight for the last transfer spot intensified, with Austin Cindric emerging from a physical exchange with Corey LaJoie—who was stepping in for Brad Keselowski—to clinch second place. Cindric survived aggressive moves in the final corner, including a significant push from AJ Allmendinger, to secure a 22nd-place start in the main event.
Alex Bowman, who had already earned his way into the main event as the highest points earner from the previous season not to qualify earlier, initially joined the LCQ but later chose to retire from the race, finishing 17th. As a result, he will start at the back of the grid for the Clash.
Early Race Drama and Caution
The quarter-mile flat oval, known for its unpredictability, witnessed its first and only caution on lap 6 when Riley Herbst and Cody Ware spun, temporarily halting the action. Michael McDowell initially jumped ahead from the front row, but was ordered to the back following a NASCAR determination that he had jumped the start over polesitter Josh Berry. McDowell concluded the race in 11th position.
After the restart, Allmendinger took the lead, but Berry regained the top spot on lap 17 and maintained his advantage for the remainder of the qualifier. The contest for the transfer slot heated up as LaJoie and Cindric closed in on Allmendinger with 14 laps remaining. LaJoie used contact to move Allmendinger aside, allowing both himself and Cindric to advance. The duel for second swapped hands several times, culminating in Cindric and LaJoie racing door-to-door into the final turn. Allmendinger’s forceful move pushed Cindric forward and sent LaJoie wide, confirming the No. 2 Ford’s transfer to the main event field.
Todd Gilliland’s night ended earlier than expected after a mechanical failure forced his retirement with 25 laps left.
Kyle Larson Takes Pole for Main Event
While the LCQ unfolded, Kyle Larson clinched pole position for the main event, adding more excitement for fans. The main event promises to bring together top names such as Josh Berry, Austin Cindric, Alex Bowman, and other standout drivers aiming for a strong start to the NASCAR season. The next phase of the action is set for 6 p.m. ET on FOX, with anticipation building among fans and participants alike as they look forward to high-stakes competition at Bowman Gray Stadium.
