BOWMAN GRAY STADIUM (WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.) — What began as a NASCAR preseason exhibition—the Clash—turned into a dramatic showdown marred by snow and rain. The challenging conditions led to drivers spinning out and battling against rain tires as they navigated the historic quarter-mile track.
In a triumphant moment for Ryan Preece, a short-track modified specialist from the Northeast, the race concluded with him claiming victory after a lengthy two hours and 20 minutes of competition. This win marked a significant milestone for Preece, who had never secured a Cup points event before. “I’m a quarter-mile killer,” Preece exclaimed, reflecting on his roots in this style of racing and the magnitude of his achievement. “It’s not a points race, but winning means everything. Man, I’m just speechless.”
Post-race, Preece was eager to continue celebrating his win, planning a seven-hour journey to Florida where he would participate in upcoming short-track events at New Smyrna Speedway. His passion for racing is clear, as he mentioned, “I race, man. It’s what it’s about. This is going to make that drive a hell of a lot better.”
Denny Hamlin demonstrated resilience throughout the night, finishing fifth despite being involved in multiple cautions after spinning on track several times. He expressed a desire for a return to normalcy after a difficult few months, including a heartbreaking loss in the Cup title and personal tragedies. “It was a good preseason [race], but I think once we get to Daytona, things will start to get a little bit more normal,” he stated, looking ahead to the more intense competition of the Daytona 500.
The race was also marked by some controversy as NASCAR responded to fuel issues among the drivers. With the exhibition race not counting caution laps, NASCAR allowed all cars to pit for fuel after several drivers, including Chase Briscoe, expressed frustration over race preparations and adjustments during the cautions. Briscoe, who led 35 laps and finished sixth, acknowledged his crew chief’s displeasure with the situation.
Newcomer Daniel Suarez, racing for Spire Motorsports after five years with Trackhouse Racing, showcased his competitive spirit, finishing respectably and intensifying battles with his former teammates. “I race people the same way they race me,” he explained, highlighting the intensity and camaraderie of the sport.
Looking ahead, the Cup Series will head to Daytona, but discussions are already circulating regarding the future of the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium. Given the unusually wintery conditions that included significant snow and ice, drivers and fans alike were challenged throughout the race. Ryan Blaney, the 2023 Cup Series champion, noted, “I don’t think you can judge a race or a track off of that weird weather circumstance.”
Ultimately, the night showcased the thrilling yet unpredictable nature of racing, coupled with the spirit of resilience that characterizes both drivers and fans. As racing season heats up, there’s hope for even more excitement in the upcoming events.