Ryan Preece finally claimed his first victory in a NASCAR Cup Series event during the Cookout Clash exhibition race at Bowman Gray Stadium on Wednesday night. This significant Ryan Preece Cup Series win came after six full-time seasons in the top tier of stock car racing and brought an emotional moment for the Connecticut native at a venue famed for its Modified racing history.
Preece Triumphs at Iconic Short Track
The achievement unfolded at Bowman Gray Stadium, a legendary quarter-mile track renowned for its ties to Modified racing. Preece, who is well-acquainted with the Modified circuits at Stafford Speedway, Thompson Speedway, and Riverhead Raceway, added to his storied career with this performance. The victory came during his second season with the RFK Racing Cup Series team, highlighting a new chapter after years of hard work and perseverance.
The Path to Victory and Race Details
The Cookout Clash, a non-points exhibition, was rescheduled from its original date after a snowstorm impacted the Carolinas over the weekend. Preece’s determination was evident on the track. He captured the lead on a restart at lap 144 during the 200-lap feature. Though he briefly lost the top spot to Shane van Gisbergen on another restart, Preece reclaimed the lead on lap 158 and continued to pull away, ultimately finishing ahead of William Byron in second place and Ryan Blaney in third. This triumph marks Preece’s best finish in NASCAR Cup Series competition, surpassing his previous career-best of third place, achieved twice before.
Emotional Reflections Mark the Milestone
After the victory, Preece was overcome with emotion, highlighting the challenges he faced on his journey.
“I don’t even know what to say, To be honest with you, it’s been a fucking long road. The Clash, but man, it’s been years and years of grinding. I’m just super thankful for Brad Keselowski, Kroger, Coca-Cola, all our partners. … Jack Roush, Fenway Group.”
– Ryan Preece, Cup Series Driver. His gratitude was especially directed at supporters, including Brad Keselowski, Kroger, Coca-Cola, Jack Roush, and Fenway Group.
Looking back on his career trajectory, Preece recalled a period of uncertainty.
“Two years ago I didn’t know if I was going to have a job. I thought I was going back to Connecticut. And I’m just super emotional.”
– Ryan Preece, Cup Series Driver. This triumph at Bowman Gray validates years of struggle and uncertainty about his place in professional racing.
Describing the closing laps, Preece expressed the magnitude of the moment,
“I’m just ah, I’m speechless man,”
– Ryan Preece, Cup Series Driver, and added,
“That last two laps, I’m speechless.”
– Ryan Preece, Cup Series Driver. These heartfelt remarks underscored the impactful presence he brought to the race and the powerful emotions he experienced securing this win.
What Comes Next for Preece and the Cup Series
This win, although in an exhibition event, serves as a major milestone for Preece and RFK Racing as the NASCAR Cup Series prepares for its official season opener at the Daytona 500 on February 15. With this momentum, Preece will be looking to translate his recent performance into continued success against a competitive field, which includes names like William Byron, Ryan Blaney, and Shane van Gisbergen. For the veteran driver, overcoming adversity and achieving such a result at a venue like Bowman Gray provides inspiration heading into the upcoming points season, adding another compelling narrative to the 2024 Cup Series.
