3/8/2026
Crate Racin' USA
Wilson Claims Round One of Late Model Challenge Series at Southern
(Milton, FL – March 8, 2026) – The inaugural Late Model Challenge Series at Southern Raceway got off to an exciting start Saturday night as JC Wilson captured the $3,000-to-win feature in the opening round of the new six-race championship.
Wilson powered his No. 02 machine to the front early in the 30-lap main event, outdueling polesitter Steven Jernigan in the opening laps before settling into the lead. As the race progressed, Wilson maintained his advantage while navigating traffic and holding off a late charge from Joseph Joiner, who put on one of the most impressive drives of the evening.
Joiner, who started deep in the field in 26th position after issues earlier in the night, carved his way through the 26-car field and advanced an incredible 24 positions to finish runner-up. Jernigan, who started from the pole and led the opening circuits before Wilson’s pass, rounded out the podium with a solid third-place finish.
A strong field of 26 Crate Racin’ USA 604 Late Models signed in for the Late Model Challenge Series opener, with several standout performances throughout the evening. Bo Slay finished fourth after starting 10th, while Austin Franklin completed the top five in the 30-lap feature. Joey Moxley, Brody Williams, Osman Jones, Kevin Ellis, and Sid Scarbrough completed the remainder of the top ten.
Earlier in the night, Jernigan, Wilson, and Moxley each claimed victories in their respective heat races. Joiner set the tone for the evening during Crown Carburetion Qualifying, recording the fastest lap of the night with a time of 15.593 seconds, but mechanical trouble forced him to start at the rear of the feature field before his impressive run to second.
The victory gives Wilson the early advantage in the Late Model Challenge Series standings as the brand-new series begins its inaugural season. The six-race series is part of the Crate Racin' USA National Points program, awarding full national points toward the 2026 championship chase for 604 Crate Late Model competitors.
Feature Results – CRUSA Late Models (30 Laps) – 26 Entries
1-JC Wilson (02)
2-Joseph Joiner (10)
3-Steven Jernigan (24)
4-Bo Slay (2)
5-Austin Franklin (22)
6-Joey Moxley (75)
7-Brody Williams (B11)
8-Osman Jones (9J)
9-Kevin Ellis (43)
10-Sid Scarbrough (33)
11-Mitchell Ellis (58)
12-Shep Lucas (57)
13-James Gilmore (47)
14-Ricky Gilmore (64)
15-Drake Ellis (17E)
16-Doug Sanchagrin (34)
17-Nick Lambeth (90)
18-Jason Cliburn (888)
19-Austin Storm (17S)
20-Tim Anderson (99)
21-Todd Jones (9)
22-Chase Williams (C11JR)
23-Taylor Jarvis (36)
24-Briar Cheatham (87)
25-Kody Cook (DNS)
26-Josh Adkins (DNS)
The Late Model Challenge Series will return to Southern Raceway for Round Two on Saturday, April 25, but fans won’t have to wait long for more racing action.
Upcoming Events at Southern Raceway
Saturday, March 28 – Regular Racing
Saturday, April 4 – Easter Race
Saturday, April 25 – Late Model Challenge Series Round Two
For more information about upcoming events at Southern Raceway, fans can call (850) 623-2333 or visit the track located at 9359 Nichols Lake Road, Milton, Florida.
Photo Credit: Sure Visuals
Article Credit: Cody Earley
