What won the race: Recently crowned 2023 track champion, pole-starting Mike Knight of Ripley, N.Y., led 35 laps unchallenged to win Friday's $5,000 opener of the two-day September Sweep at Eriez Speedway. Knight notched his fourth Super Late Model victory of the season at Eriez while 12th-starting Greg Oakes moved into the runner-up spot on lap 22 and trailed Knight for the final 14 laps, finishing 0.963 of a second back.

Key notes: Dave Hess Jr. of Waterford, Pa., was taken to a hospital complaining of knee pain and a headache after his car rolled in turn two in a lap-12 wreck. ... Hess and Rusty Schlenk tangled battling for second with Hess flipping, necessitated a 15-minute red flag for cleanup and to assist Hess with exiting his mangled machine. ... Schlenk, Doug Eck and Bob Dorman were all involved and unable to continue, while Alex Ferree completed one more lap before puling off. ... Sixth-starting Bump Hedman ran as high as second on the lap-13 restart before settling for third. ... Darrell Bossard and Ryan Scott each improved nine positions, finishing fourth and fifth. ... Khole Wanzer gained seven spots and finished eighth. ... Steve Kania ran as high as fourth before retiring on lap 32. ... Friday's September Sweep opener lasted 41 minutes and saw seven competitors complete 35 laps. … Another $5,000-to-win event is set for Saturday.

On the move: Greg Oakes of Franklinville, N.Y., started 12th and finished second.

Winner's sponsors: Knight’s Rocket Chassis carries sponsorship from Knight Operating Services, GB Repair & Towing, Ottaway’s Auto Body, Briggs Transport, Jay’s Auto Wrecking, Chub Frank Racing, Hoosier Tire and Penske Racing Shocks.

Points chase: Mike Knight of Ripley, N.Y., was crowned 2023 track champion.

Current weather: Clear, 57°F

Car count: 22

Fast qualifier: Rusty Schlenk

Polesitter: Mike Knight

Heat race winners: Mike Knight, Dave Hess Jr., Steve Kania