Snowball Derby Drama: In the high-stakes showdown at the 56th Snowball Derby in Pensacola, Florida, Travis Braden secured a solid third-place finish, navigating a tumultuous race at Five Flags Speedway. His role as a setup mechanic for Alex Bowman’s No. 48 Ally Racing team didn’t deter his pursuit, starting the event from the 20th spot and steering clear of two major late-race pileups that shuffled the running order.
Reflecting on the race, Braden shared insights during a post-race interview with Racing America’s telecast, acknowledging the initial struggles during the first laps of a run. “We found ourselves lagging behind early on, struggling to match the leader’s pace,” he admitted. “We dialed in our strategy as the race progressed, gaining track position, and managed to hold on towards the end.”
Braden, originally from Wheeling, West Virginia, boasts previous victories at the 2019 Snowball Derby and the 2016 Winchester 400, showcasing a history steeped in racing excellence. His journey began in the Legends Cars Series, clinching the Young Lions National Championship at a remarkably young age. Subsequently, his ascent through the ranks included a notable stint as the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series State Champion for Ohio and triumphs in the CRA Super Series and the ARCA Menards Series.
Meanwhile, William Byron, a consistent presence in the top 10 throughout the 300-lap spectacle, faced adversity in the form of a major wreck on lap 283, concluding his race with a 22nd-place finish. Byron, 26, reflected on his race, lamenting the inability to finish strong despite consistent efforts to fine-tune his No. 24 machine throughout the event.
For Byron, this marked the culmination of a hectic week in Nashville for NASCAR’s Champion’s Week. His 2023 NASCAR Cup Series campaign showcased remarkable achievements, securing six victories and marking his inaugural appearance in the Championship 4, culminating in a career-best third-place finish in the overall standings.
Braden’s tenacity and Byron’s pursuit amid the Snowball Derby chaos underscored their unwavering commitment in the face of unpredictable racing fortunes.
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Our Reader’s Queries
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 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.
How many cars start the Snowball Derby?
Drivers will have a limited opportunity to qualify, with only two timed laps to secure their spot. Those who fail to make the top-30 will have to compete in a last chance race on Saturday to earn a place in the 36-car starting lineup. The starting grid will consist of the 30 fastest drivers from Friday’s qualifying session.
When was the first Snowball Derby?
In 1968, Dawson organized the inaugural Snowball Derby, offering a $1,000 prize to the winner. The race was scheduled for December 15th, a chilly Sunday afternoon. Despite the freezing temperatures, the event was a success. Dan Spence, the current race director at Five Flags Speedway, recalls the bitter cold of that day.
