Best of the Quarter Century (2001-2025)

Top 25 state-by-state over the quarter century

December 18, 2025, 7:40 am

By Todd Turner

DirtonDirt managing editor

A state-by-state breakdown of the best drivers and other items from 2001-2025. Drivers are listed alphabetically with the top five and the remainder of the top 25. Special event victory totals include series and added-purse events on DirtonDirt's master schedule (asterisks denotes members of Top 25s that still compete regularly in Late Models; slideshow; Best of 2025 coverage index):

Alabama

Rank among states (among 26): No. 24

Drivers among national top 25: None

Most special event victories (total): Mike Boland (51)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Josh Putnam (2008-25)

Most underrated driver: Mark Mears

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Sam Seawright

Most memorable race: Joseph Joiner captures East Alabama’s National 100 in 2020 on final lap with runner-up Christian Hanger disputing scoring postrace.

Defining track: Talladega Short Track, Eastaboga, Ala.

Emerging track: Buckshot Speedway, Clanton, Ala.

Lost track: Green Valley Speedway, Glencoe, Ala.

Top five

Mike Boland, Cuba, Ala.

Jason Hiett, Oxford, Ala.

Ronny Lee Hollingsworth, Northport, Ala.

Josh Putnam, Florence, Ala.*

Sam Seawright, Rainsville, Ala.*

Next 20

Brandon Brown, Hanceville, Ala.*

Anthony Burroughs, Muscle Shoals, Ala.

Tim Busha, Boaz, Ala.*

Montana Dudley, Phenix City, Ala.*

Chase Edge, La Fayette, Ala.*

Dana Eiland, Phenix City, Ala.*

Robert Gant, Pisgah, Ala.

Shep Lucas, McKenzie, Ala.

Ross Martin, Talladega, Ala.

Seth McCormack, Muscle Shoals, Ala.*

Mark Mears, Florence, Ala.

Justin McRee, Cottondale, Ala.

Byron Michael, Florence, Ala.

Terrance Nowell, Phenix City, Ala.

Jerry Owens, Killen, Ala.

Danny Peoples, Margaret, Ala.

Tim Roszell, Anniston, Ala.

Terry Smith, Oxford, Ala.

Dillon Tidmore, Gadsden, Ala.*

William Thomas, Phenix City, Ala.

Honorable mention: T.J. Alford, Dalton Cook, Richie Stephens, Jimmy Thomas.

Arkansas-Louisiana-Texas

Rank among states (among 26): No. 5

Drivers among national top 25: Billy Moyer

Most special event victories (total): Billy Moyer (240)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Rob Litton and Billy Moyer (2001-25)

Most underrated driver: Steven Crocker

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Clay Stuckey

Most memorable race: On a scalding Sunday afternoon, Jared Landers survives tire-wear attrition then heaves his helmet into grandstands after 2010’s Topless 100 victory at Batesville that paid $40,000.

Defining track: Batesville Motor Speedway, Locust Grove, Ark.

Emerging track: Boothill Speedway, Greenwood, La.

Lost track: Lone Star Speedway, Kilgore, Texas

Top five

Tyler Erb, New Waverly, Texas*

Bill Frye, Greenbrier, Ark.

Billy Moyer, Batesville, Ark.*

Chris Wall, Springfield, La.

Wendell Wallace, Batesville, Ark.

Next 20

Ronny Adams, Diana, Texas

David Ashley Jr., Gonzalez, La.

Morgan Bagley, Longview, Texas*

Kyle Beard, Trumann, Ark.*

Jay Blair, Angie, La.

Steven Crocker, Jonesboro, Ark.*

Timothy Culp, Prattsville, Ark.*

Cade Dillard, Robeline, La.*

Jared Landers, Batesville, Ark.

Rob Litton, Alexandria, La.*

Kenny Merchant, Ruston, La.

Ray Moore, Shreveport, La.

Billy Moyer Jr., Batesville, Ark.

Jon Mitchell, Texarkana, Texas*

Bubba Mullins, West Monroe, La.*

B.J. Robinson, Bossier City, La.*

Rodney Sanders, Happy, Texas

Kevin Sitton, Baytown, Texas

Jack Sullivan, Greenbrier, Ark.

Jeff Taylor, Locust Grove, Ark.

Honorable mention: Robert Baker, Patrik Daniel, Lee Davis, Mark Nichols, Chandler Petty, Tyler Stevens, Mickey Trosclair, Donald Watson.

Delaware-Maryland

Rank among states (among 26): No. 25

Drivers among national top 25: None

Most special event victories (total): Jamie Lathroum (28)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Jamie Lathroum (2008-23)

Most underrated driver: Keith Jackson

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Austin Lathroum

Most memorable race: Winning his first Lucas Oil Series event, Gregg Satterlee overtakes Scott Bloomquist on the final lap for a 2016 victory at Hagerstown Speedway.

Defining track: Hagerstown (Md.) Speedway

Emerging track: Georgetown (Del.) Speedway

Lost track: Cumberland (Md.) Speedway

Top five

Ricky Elliott, Seaford, Del.

Dale Hollidge, Mechanicsville, Md.

Austin Hubbard, Seaford, Del.

Jamie Lathroum, Mechanicsville, Md.*

Donald Lingo Jr., Millsboro, Del.*

Next 20

Wes Bonebrake, Hagerstown, Md.*

Chuck Clise, Frostburg, Md.*

Roy Deese Jr., Laurels, Md.*

Nathan Durboraw, Hagerstown, Md.

Robbie Emory, Milton, Del.*

Cody Hardesty, Oakland, Md.

David Hill, Trappe, Md.

Matt Hill, Georgetown, Md.*

Darryl Hills, Great Hills, Md.

Keith Jackson, Odenton, Md.

Richard Jarvis Jr., Powellville, Md.

Kyle Lear, Severna Park, Md.*

Kenny Moreland, Waldorf, Md.*

Kenny Pettyjohn, Milton, Del.

Mark Pettyjohn, Milton, Del.*

Derick Quade, Mechanicsville, Md.*

Amanda Robinson, Georgetown, Del.*

Ross Robinson, Georgetown, Del.*

Justin Weaver, Clear Spring, Md.*

David Williams, Avenue, Md.

Honorable mention: Trevor Collins, David Pettyjohn, Alan Sagi.

Florida

Rank among states (among 26): No. 16

Drivers among national top 25: Earl Pearson Jr.

Most special event victories (total): Mark Whitener (123)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Ivedent Lloyd Jr. (2002-25)

Most underrated driver: Keith Nosbisch

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Trey Mills

Most memorable race: In 2023’s DIRTcar Nationals finale at Volusia, Hudson O’Neal rallies from 23rd to lead the last five laps.

Defining track: East Bay Raceway Park in Gibsonton, Fla.

Emerging track: All-Tech Raceway, Ellisville, Fla.

Lost track: East Bay

Top five

Kyle Bronson, Brandon, Fla.*

Joseph Joiner, Milton, Fla.*

Ivedent Lloyd Jr., Ocala, Fla.*

Earl Pearson Jr., Jacksonville, Fla.

Mark Whitener, Middleburg, Fla.*

Next 20

Bryan Bernhardt, Clearwater, Fla.

Donnie Chappell, St. Augustine, Fla.*

Phillip Cobb, Dover, Fla.*

Johnny Collins, Jacksonville, Fla.*

Tyler Crowder, Lamont, Fla.

Roger Crouse, Plant City, Fla.

Devin Dixon, Apollo Beach, Fla.*

Jason Fitzgerald, Middleburg, Fla.

Nevin Gainey, Fort White, Fla.*

Clay Harris, Jupiter, Fla.*

Doug Horton, Ruskin, Fla.*

Colton Leyendecker, Holt, Fla.*

Jeff Mathews, Brandon, Fla.

Trey Mills, St. Augustine, Fla.*

Jack Nosbisch Jr., Riverview, Fla.

Keith Nosbisch, Valrico, Fla.

Patrick Sheltra, Indiantown, Fla.

Bo Slay, Milton, Fla.*

Shan Smith, Dade City, Fla.

Kyle Van Sickle, Jacksonville, Fla.*

Honorable mention: Cody Smith, Travis Varnadore, Frank Wilson.

Georgia

Rank among states (among 26): No. 2

Drivers among national top 25: Shane Clanton, Jonathan Davenport, Dale McDowell, Brandon Overton

Most special event victories (total): Jonathan Davenport (282)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Dale McDowell (2001-25)

Most underrated driver: Benji Cole

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Ashton Winger

Most memorable race: Rallying from the tail, Randle Chupp led the final 14 laps at Golden Isles Speedway for a 2009 Speedweeks victory on the Southern All Star circuit.

Defining track: Dixie Speedway, Woodstock, Ga.

Emerging track: Senoia Raceway

Lost track: Rome Speedway

Top five

Shane Clanton, Zebulon, Ga.*

Jonathan Davenport, Blairsville, Ga.*

Dale McDowell, Chickamauga, Ga.*

Brandon Overton, Evans, Ga.*

Casey Roberts, Toccoa, Ga.*

Next 20

Joseph Brown, Pine Mountain Valley, Ga.*

Rhett Carter, Blackshear, Ga.*

Kenny Collins, Colbert, Ga.*

Benji Cole, Canon, Ga.

Brandon Haley, Lavonia, Ga.*

Wil Herrington, Hawkinsville, Ga.*

Austin Horton, Whitesburg, Ga.*

Frank Ingram, Acworth, Ga.

Jake Knowles, Rome, Ga.

Donald McIntosh, Dawsonville, Ga.*

Jordy Nipper, Gray, Ga.*

Cody Overton, Thomson, Ga.*

Michael Page, Douglasville, Ga.*

Jack Pennington, Winston, Ga.

Travis Pennington, Stapleton, Ga.

Jeff Smith, Rocky Face, Ga.*

Clint Smith, Senoia, Ga.

Garrett Smith, Madison, Ga.*

Kelly Walker, Moultrie, Ga.

Ashton Winger, Hampton, Ga.*

Honorable mention: Ches Chester, Chesley Dixon, Ben Faircloth, Payton Freeman, Dewayne Johnson, Gary McPherson, Tyler Millwood, Shane Tankersley, Clayton Turner.

Illinois

Rank among states (among 26): No. 1

Drivers among national top 25: Shannon Babb, Dennis Erb Jr., Bobby Pierce, Brandon Sheppard

Most special event victories (total): Bobby Pierce (247)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Shannon Babb (2001-25)

Most underrated driver: Billy Faust

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Caden McWhorter

Most memorable race: Using a last-lap slide job that left Bobby Pierce against the turn-four wall, Brandon Sheppard captured 2019’s Prairie Dirt Classic at Fairbury Speedway.

Defining track: Fairbury Speedway

Emerging track: Red Hill Raceway, Sumner, Ill.

Lost track: Route 66 Raceway, Joliet, Ill.

Top five

Shannon Babb, Moweaqua, Ill.*

Dennis Erb Jr., Carpentersville, Ill.*

Bobby Pierce, Oakwood, Ill.*

Brandon Sheppard, New Berlin, Ill.*

Brian Shirley, Chatham, Ill.*

Next 20

Mark Burgtorf, Quincy, Ill.*

Billy Drake, Bloomington, Ill.

Billy Faust, Lebanon, Ill.

Jason Feger, Bloomington, Ill.*

Ray Guss Jr., Milan, Ill.

Frank Heckenast Jr., Frankfort, Ill.*

Richie Hedrick, Urbana, Ill.

Daryn Klein, Fairview Heights, Ill.*

Michael Kloos, Trenton, Ill.*

Randy Korte, Highland, Ill.

Rodney Melvin, Benton, Ill.*

Darren Miller, Chadwick, Ill.

Bob Pierce, Danville, Ill.

Mike Spatola, Manhattan, Ill.*

Rob Toland, Hinsdale, Ill.

Kevin Weaver, Gibson City, Ill.*

Denny Woodworth, Mendon, Ill.*

Ryan Unzicker, El Paso, Ill.*

McKay Wenger, Fairbury, Ill.*

Chad Zobrist, Highland, Ill.*

Honorable mention: Lonnie Bailey, Rich Bell, Todd Bennett, Kyle Logue, Roger Long, Tim Manville, Jose Parga, Eric Smith.

Iowa

Rank among states (among 26): No. 4

Drivers among national top 25: Brian Birkhofer

Most special event victories (total): Brian Birkhofer (124)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Jeff Aikey (2001-25)

Most underrated driver: John Hampel

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Dallon Murty

Most memorable race: Winning 2014’s Knoxville Nationals, Brian Birkhofer overtakes Scott Bloomquist on the final lap for a $40,000 triumph on the weekend he announced he would shutter his self-owned team.

Defining track: Davenport Speedway

Emerging track: Maquoketa Speedway

Lost track: Iowa State Fair Speedway, Des Moines, Iowa

Top five

Jeff Aikey, Cedar Falls, Iowa*

Brian Birkhofer, Muscatine, Iowa

Justin Kay, Wheatland, Iowa*

Chad Simpson, Mount Vernon, Iowa*

Chris Simpson, Oxford, Iowa*

Next 20

Steve Boley, Oxford, Iowa

Tyler Bruening, Decorah, Iowa*

Todd Cooney, Des Moines, Iowa

Darrel DeFrance, Marshalltown, Iowa*

Andy Eckrich, Iowa City, Iowa*

Denny Eckrich, Tiffin, Iowa

Dave Eckrich, Cosgrove, Iowa*

Ryan Gustin, Marshalltown, Iowa*

John Hampel, Corning, Iowa

Brian Harris, Davenport, Iowa

Jeremiah Hurst, Dubuque, Iowa

Nick Marolf, Moscow, Iowa*

Curt Martin, Independence, Iowa*

Terry Neal, Ely, Iowa

Andy Nezworski, Blue Grass, Iowa*

Jason Rauen, Farley, Iowa

Matt Ryan, Davenport, Iowa*

Jesse Sobbing, Malvern, Iowa*

Chris Spieker, Massena, Iowa*

Justin Zeitner, Malvern, Iowa*

Honorable mention: Joel Callahan, Tommy Elston, Luke Merfeld, Eric Pollard, Gary Webb.

Indiana

Rank among states (among 26): No. 9

Drivers among national top 25: Don O’Neal, Hudson O'Neal

Most special event victories (total): Don O’Neal (164)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Don O’Neal (2001-19)

Most underrated driver: Greg Johnson

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Braiden Keller

Most memorable race: Overtaking Ray Cook early and fighting of multiple challengers including fellow Wisconsinite Brady Smith, Jimmy Mars captures the lone Dirt Track World Championship held in the Hoosier State in 2009 at Lawrenceburg Speedway for a $50,000 payday.

Defining track: Brownstown Speedway

Emerging track: Circle City Raceway, Indianapolis, Ind.

Lost track: Crown Point Speedway

Top five

Steve Casebolt, Richmond, Ind.

Scott James, Bright, Ind.

Mike Jewell, Scottsburg, Ind.

Don O’Neal, Martinsville, Ind.

Hudson O’Neal, Martinsville, Ind.*

Next 20

Mark Barber, North Vernon, Ind.

Steve Barnett, Franklin, Ind.

Tyler Cain, Seymour, Ind.*

Duane Chamberlain, Richmond, Ind.

Kevin Claycomb, Vincennes, Ind.

John Gill, Mitchell, Ind.

Devin Gilpin, Columbus, Ind.*

Joe Godsey, Bedford, Ind.

Jeremy Hines, Seymour, Ind.

Jason Jameson, Lawrenceburg, Ind.*

Greg Johnson, Bedford, Ind.

Cody Mahoney, Madison, Ind.*

Shelby Miles, Bloomington, Ind.*

Tyler Neal, Paragon, Ind.*

Marty O’Neal, Gosport, Ind.*

Steve Peeden, Martinsville, Ind.*

Tim Prince, Heltonville, Ind.

Kent Robinson, Bloomington, Ind.

Chad Stapleton, Edinburgh, Ind.*

Shawn Toczek, Griffith, Ind.

Honorable mention: Steve Godsey, Shawn Negangard, Jace Owens, Jason Setser, Dan Sturgeon, Bill Sheets.

Kansas-Nebraska-Oklahoma

Rank among states (among 26): No. 15

Drivers among national top 25: None

Most special event victories (total): Kyle Berck (160)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Kyle Berck (2001-25)

Most underrated driver: Travis Dickes

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Landon Rojewski

Most memorable race: Winning 2013’s Silver Dollar Nationals at I-80 Speedway, $27,000 winner Jimmy Owens led three times in an 80-lapper highlighted by Ryan Gustin’s 34th-to-first rally and a contentious tangle between Jared Landers and Brian Birkhofer.

Defining track: 81 Speedway, Wichita, Kan.

Emerging track: Eagle (Neb.) Raceway

Lost track: I-80 Speedway, Greenwood, Neb.

Top five

John Anderson, Omaha, Neb.

Kyle Berck, Marquette, Neb.*

Cory Dumpert, Newman Grove, Neb.*

Tad Pospisil, Norfolk, Neb.*

Al Purkey, Coffeyville, Kan.

Next 20

Travis Dickes, Madison, Neb.

Jason Friesen, Sutton, Neb.

Gary Gorby, Caney, Kan.*

Joe Gorby, Caney, Kan.*

Kip Hughes, Enid, Okla.*

Al Humphrey, Giltner, Neb.

Chase Junghans, Manhattan, Kan.*

Jase Kaser, Lincoln, Neb.

Steve Kosiski, Papillon, Neb.

Bill Leighton Jr., La Vista, Neb.*

Dusty Leonard, Marysville, Kan.*

Josh Leonard, Gibbon, Neb.*

Jacob Magee, Caney, Kan.*

Eddie Martin, Stilwell, Okla.

Larry McDaniels, Valley Center, Kan.

Raymond Merrill, Sallisaw, Okla.*

Jake Neal, Omaha, Neb.*

Delbert Smith, Wichita, Kan.*

Randy Timms, Wheatland, Okla.

Corey Zeitner, Bellevue, Neb.*

Honorable mention: Nick Deal, Brett Hansen, Joe Kosiski, Chris Kratzer.

Kentucky

Rank among states (among 26): No. 7

Drivers among national top 25: Steve Francis, Darrell Lanigan

Most special event victories (total): Darrell Lanigan (122)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Darrell Lanigan (2001-23)

Most underrated driver: Derek Fisher

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Josh Rice

Most memorable race: Becoming the first Bluegrass State native to win the North-South 100 in 20 years, Eddie Carrier Jr. emerged from a late-race battle with Jimmy Owens for 2014’s Lucas Oil Series victory at Florence Speedway.

Defining track: Florence Speedway, Union, Ky.

Emerging track: Rockcastle Speedway, Mount Vernon, Ky.

Lost track: Kentucky Lake Motor Speedway, Calvert City, Ky.

Top five

Jackie Boggs, Grayson, Ky.

Tanner English, Benton, Ky.*

Steve Francis, Ashland, Ky.

Darrell Lanigan, Union, Ky.

Josh Rice, Crittenden, Ky.*

Next 20

Bobby Carrier Jr., Harrodsburg, Ky.

Michael Chilton, Salvisa, Ky.*

Terry English, Benton, Ky.

Derek Fisher, Olympia, Ky.*

Brandon Fouts, Kite, Ky.*

Aaron Hatton, Mount Sterling, Ky.

Steve Landrum, Erlanger, Ky.

Victor Lee, Danville, Ky.

Dustin Linville, Bryantsville, Ky.*

Josh McGuire, Grayson, Ky.

Audie McWilliams, Walton, Ky.

Brad Neat, Dunnville, Ky.

Dustin Neat, Dunnville, Ky.

Justin Rattliff, Campbellsville, Ky.*

Jerry Rice, Verona, Ky.

Randy Sellars, Mayfield, Ky.

Shannon Thornsberry, Martin, Ky.*

Tim Tungate, Campbellsville, Ky.

Jeff Watson, Campbellsville, Ky.*

Johnny Wheeler, Campbellsville, Ky.

Honorable mention: Chris Combs, Kenny Christy, Todd Coffman, Paul Harris, John Tindal, Eric Wells.

Michigan

Rank among states (among 26): No. 18

Drivers among national top 25: None

Most special event victories (total): Jeep Van Wormer (61)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Eric Spangler (2005-24)

Most underrated driver: Scott Baker

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Mason VanderVeen

Most memorable race: Rusty Schlenk overtakes fellow front-row starter Eric Spangler on the final corner of 2021’s Wood Tic at Merritt Speedway for a $33,000 victory.

Defining track: Merritt Speedway, Lake City, Mich.

Emerging track: Crystal Motor Speedway

Lost track: Cherry Raceway, Fife Lake, Mich.

Top five

Dona Marcoullier, Houghton Lake, Mich.*

Rich Neiser, Fruitport, Mich.*

Eric Spangler, Lake City, Mich.*

Travis Stemler, Ionia, Mich.*

Jeep Van Wormer, Pinconning, Mich.

Next 20

Scott Baker, Ionia, Mich.

Kyle Borgman, Muskegon, Mich.*

Bill Bray, Spring Lake, Mich.*

Greg Gokey, Buckley, Mich.*

Chad Finley, St. Johns, Mich.*

David Hilliker, Midland, Mich.*

Derrick Hilliker, Midland, Mich.*

J.R. Hotovy, Covert, Mich.

Zack Olger, St. Johns, Mich.

Kris Patterson, St. Johns, Mich.

Kevin Reeve, Hanover, Mich.

Curtis Roberts, Coleman, Mich.*

Brian Ruhlman, Clark Lake, Mich.

Frank Seder, Alger, Mich.

Devin Shiels, Britton, Mich.*

Tom Sprague Jr., Muskegon, Mich.*

Brandon Thirlby, Traverse City, Mich.*

Ryan VanderVeen, Six Lakes, Mich.

Alan Vochaska, South Haven, Mich.

Roger Wing, Middleton, Mich.

Honorable mention: Jeff Kohn, David Mielke, Logan Nickerson, Justin Paxton, Garrett Wiles.

Minnesota

Rank among states (among 26): No. 21

Drivers among national top 25: None

Most special event victories (total): Don Shaw (82)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Don Shaw (2002-25)

Most underrated driver: Marshall Fegers

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Cade Nelson

Most memorable race: Using a last-lap slide job to win 2023’s NAPA Gopher State 50, Bobby Pierce nipped Hudson O’Neal by two-thousandths of a second for a $50,000 victory at Deer Creek Speedway.

Defining track: Deer Creek Speedway, Spring Valley, Minn.

Emerging track: I-94 EMR Speedway, Fergus Falls, Minn.

Lost track: Steele County Fairgrounds, Owatonna, Minn.

Top five

Zach Johnson, Lowry, Minn.*

Darrell Nelson, Hermantown, Minn.*

Don Shaw, Ham Lake, Minn.*

Dustin Strand, East Grand Forks, Minn.*

Jeff Wildung, Nassua, Minn.

Next 20

Travis Budisalovich, Minneapolis, Minn.*

Rick Egersdorf, Lake Elmo, Minn.

Justin Fegers, Mound, Minn.

Marshall Fegers, Savage, Minn.

Keith Foss, Winona, Minn.

Harry Hanson, Eveleth, Minn.*

Brent Larson, Lake Elmo, Minn.*

Jeff Massingill, Keewatin, Minn.*

Dave Mass, East Bethel, Minn.*

Lance Matthees, Winona, Minn.*

Tim McMann, Duluth, Minn.*

Ryan Mikkelson, Alexandria, Minn.*

Corey Nelson, Canby, Minn.*

Joey Pederson, East Grand Forks, Minn.*

Kyle Peterlin, Hibbing, Minn.*

Jeff Provinzino, Hibbing, Minn.*

Cole Schill, Hawley, Minn.*

John Seitz, Bemidji, Minn.

Mark Teske, Spring Valley, Minn.

Jordan Tollakson, Montevideo, Minn.*

Honorable mention: Eric Breeschoten, Matt Gilbertson, Shane Sabraski.

Mississippi

Rank among states (among 26): No. 19

Drivers among national top 25: None

Most special event victories (total): David Breazeale (56)

Widest range of special event victories (years): David Breazeale (2003-25)

Most underrated driver: Neil Baggett

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Ben Davis

Most memorable race: Billy Moyer outruns Chris Wall to win 2009’s Cotton Pickin’ 100 at Magnolia Motor Speedway amid Wall’s complaints the track allowed him to run a rear spoiler that was too tall.

Defining track: Magnolia Motor Speedway, Columbus, Miss.

Emerging track: Pike County Speedway, Magnolia, Miss.

Lost track: Columbus Motor Speedway

Top five

David Breazeale, Four Corners, Miss.*

Bub McCool, Vicksburg, Miss.

Brian Rickman, Columbus, Miss.*

Anthony Rushing, Kosciusko, Miss.

Chad Thrash, Meridian, Miss.*

Next 20

Michael Arnold, Florence, Miss.

Neil Baggett, Columbus, Miss.*

Randall Beckwith, Kilmichael, Miss.*

Danny Christian, Corinth, Miss.

Jason Cliburn, Star, Miss.

Jimmy Cliburn, Star, Miss.

Eric Cooley, Fulton, Miss.*

Noah Daspit, Kiln, Miss.*

James Dean, Chunky, Miss.

Scott Dedwylder, Vossburg, Miss.

Greg Fore, Greenville, Miss.

Spencer Hughes, Meridian, Miss.*

Shannon Lee, Lumberton, Miss.*

Jim McDuffie, Meridian, Miss.*

Chris McElhenney, Decatur, Miss.*

Mike Palasini Jr., Leland, Miss.*

Rick Rickman, Columbus, Miss.*

Steve Russell, Pontotoc, Miss.*

Scott Slay, Clinton, Miss.

Rodney Wing, Meridian, Miss.

Honorable mention: Klint Byars, Evan Ellis, Lucky Keeton, Brandon Poppenheimer, Chase Washington, Cliff Williams.

Missouri

Rank among states (among 26): No. 8

Drivers among national top 25: None

Most special event victories (total): Terry Phillips (178)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Terry Phillips (2001-25)

Most underrated driver: Jeremy Payne

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Dillon McCowan

Most memorable race: Winning just days after his father’s death, a tearful Tyler Erb celebrates an indoor victory after leading the final laps of 2022's $30,000 Gateway Dirt Nationals in St. Louis.

Defining track: Lucas Oil Speedway, Wheatland, Mo.

Emerging track: The Dome at America's Center

Lost track: West Plains Motor Speedway

Top five

Tony Jackson Jr., Lebanon, Mo.*

Terry Phillips, Springfield, Mo.*

Jesse Stovall, Billings, Mo.

Will Vaught, Crane, Mo.

Justin Wells, Aurora, Mo.*

Next 20

Jason Bodenhamer, Centerview, Mo.

Scott Crigler, Alton, Mo.*

Ed Dixon, Washington, Mo.

Ken Essary, Cape Fair, Mo.

Leslie Essary, Crane, Mo.

Johnny Fennewald, Appleton, City, Mo.

Rusty Griffaw, Festus, Mo.*

Gordy Gundaker, St. Charles, Mo.*

Billy James, Sikeston, Mo.

Matt Johnson, Archie, Mo.*

Dewayne Kiefer, St. Genevieve, Mo.

Brad Looney, Republic, Mo.

Payton Looney, Republic, Mo.*

Aaron Marrant, Richmond, Mo.*

Logan Martin, West Plains, Mo.*

Rex McCroskey, Springfield, Mo.

Mason Oberkramer, Broseley, Mo.*

Jeremy Payne, Springfield, Mo.

Jason Russell, Henley, Mo.

Alan Vaughn, Belton, Mo.

Honorable mention: Tommy Cordray, Shane Essary, Houston Johnson, Chris Smyser, Eric Turner, Cole Wells.

New York

Rank among states (among 26): No. 23

Drivers among national top 25: Tim McCreadie

Most special event victories (total): Tim McCreadie (119)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Tim McCreadie (2004-25)

Most underrated driver: John Waters

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Brock Pinkerous

Most memorable race: Winning his first World of Outlaws feature, Ricky Elliott outdueled series stars Rick Eckert, Shane Clanton and Darrell Lanigan, leading the final 12 laps of 2010’s event at Brewerton Speedway for a $10,000 payday.

Defining track: Stateline Speedway, Busti, N.Y.

Emerging track: The Dirt Track at Genesee, Batavia, N.Y.

Lost track: Little Valley Speedway

Top five

Dick Barton, Ashville, N.Y.

Tim Fuller, Watertown, N.Y.

Mike Knight, Ripley, N.Y.*

Tim McCreadie, Watertown, N.Y.*

Jeremy Wonderling, Wellsville, N.Y.*

Next 20

Dale Caswell, Central Square, N.Y.

Jason Genco, Frewsburg, N.Y.*

Bryce Davis, Canisteo, N.Y.*

Bob Dorman, Stockton, N.Y.*

Alan Fink, Central Square, N.Y.

Chris Fleming, Auburn, N.Y.

Chad Homan, Penfield, N.Y.*

Brian Knowles, Corning, N.Y.*

Jason Knowles, Addison, N.Y.

John Lacki, Sinclairville, N.Y.

John Lobb, Frewsburg, N.Y.

Rod Maloy, Panama, N.Y.

Greg Oakes, Franklinville, N.Y.*

David Pangrazio, Elba, N.Y.*

Brock Pinkerous, Ellenville, N.Y.*

Chad Ruhlman, Bemus Point, N.Y.

Tim Sears, Central Square, N.Y.

John Waters, Whitesville, N.Y.*

Glenn Whritenour, Jasper, N.Y.

Mike Wonderling Jr., Wellsville, N.Y.*

Honorable mention: Kevan Cook, Dave DuBois, Lee Gill, Kurt Stebbins.

North Carolina

Rank among states (among 26): No. 13

Drivers among national top 25: None

Most special event victories (total): Ricky Weeks (74)

Widest range of special event victories (years): David Payne (2002-25)

Most underrated driver: Ron Parker

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: John Ruggiero Jr.

Most memorable race: In a 2011 World Finals finale at Charlotte won by Jimmy Owens, 12th-finishing Rick Eckert secures the World of Outlaws title when a last-lap flat tire for Josh Richards cost him the championship.

Defining track: The Dirt Track at Charlotte, Concord, N.C.

Emerging track: Tri-County Racetrack, Brasstown, N.C.

Lost track: Thunder Valley Speedway, Lawndale, N.C.

Top five

Ray Cook, Brasstown, N.C.

Chris Ferguson, Mount Holly, N.C.*

Ron Parker, Belwood, N.C.

Dustin Mitchell, Pine Level, N.C.*

Ricky Weeks, Rutherfordton, N.C.

Next 20

Steve Banal, Lincolnton, N.C.*

Steve Blackburn, Brown Summit, N.C.*

Johnny Chastain, Murphy, N.C.

Randle Chupp, Mooresville, N.C.

Carson Ferguson, Lincolnton, N.C.*

Shaun Harrell, Raeford, N.C.*

Nick Hoffman, Mooresville, N.C.*

Billy Hicks, Mount Airy, N.C.

Matt Long, Concord, N.C.*

David McCoy, Franklin, N.C.*

Willie Milliken, Roanoke Rapids, N.C.*

David Payne, Murphy, N.C.*

Michael Rouse, Wilson, N.C. *

John Ruggiero Jr., Lincolnton, N.C.*

Freddy Smith, Kings Mountain, N.C.

Jeff Smith, Dallas, N.C.*

Kyle Strickler, Mooresville, N.C.*

Christian Thomas, Wake Forest, N.C.*

Ray Tucker, Greensboro, N.C.

Daulton Wilson, Fayetteville, N.C.*

Honorable mention: Tim Allen, Shawn Beasley, Dean Bowen, Shawn Chastain, Matthew Nance, Furman Parton, Jay Sessoms.

North Dakota-South Dakota

Rank among states (among 26): No. 20

Drivers among national top 25: None

Most special event victories (total): Brad Seng (45)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Kent Arment (2002-21)

Most underrated driver: John Bey

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Blair Nothdurft

Most memorable race: In 2008’s World of Outlaws stop at River Cities Speedway, Brady Smith nipped late-charging Shannon Babb by a tenth of a second for a $10,000 payday.

Defining track: River Cities Speedway, Grand Forks, N.D.

Emerging track: Devils Lake Speedway, Crary, N.D.

Lost track: Miller (S.D.) Central Speedway

Top five

Kent Arment, Aberdeen, S.D.*

Chad Becker, Aberdeen, S.D.*

Curt Gelling, Aberdeen, S.D.

Tyler Peterson, Hickson, N.D.*

Brad Seng, Grand Forks, N.D.*

Next 20

Trevor Anderson, Watertown, N.D.*

Matt Aukland, Fargo, N.D.

Rick Aukland, Fargo, N.D.

John Bey, Deadwood, S.D.

Gary Brown Jr., Brandon, S.D.*

Brian Diede, Huron, S.D.

Mike Greseth, Harwood, N.D.*

Mitch Johnson, Hickson, N.D.*

Jeremy Keller, Bismarck, N.D.

Eric Mass, Rapid City, S.D.

David McDonald, Huron, S.D.

Blair Nothdurft, Renner, S.D.*

Troy Olson, Fargo, N.D.

Donny Schatz, Fargo, N.D.

Troy Schill, Grand Forks, N.D.

Cole Searing, Huron, S.D.*

Josh Skorczewski, Aberdeen, S.D.*

Cody Skytland, Horace, N.D.

Mike Stadel, Rapid City, S.D.

Scott Ward, Watertown, S.D.*

Honorable mention: Bryan Berger, Shawn Malsam, D.J. Tesch, Chad Williamson.

Ohio

Rank among states (among 26): No. 10

Drivers among national top 25: Devin Moran

Most special event victories (total): Devin Moran (83)

Widest range of special event victories (years): R.J. and Rod Conley (2001-25)

Most underrated driver: Shane McLoughlin

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Lincoln Smith

Most memorable race: In a battle royal slugfest over the final 25 laps, Earl Pearson Jr. captures 2006’s World 100 at Eldora Speedway in a race with four lead changes among four drivers.

Defining track: Eldora Speedway, Rossburg, Ohio

Emerging track: Moler Raceway Park, Williamsburg, Ohio

Lost track: Cannonball Speedway, St. Clairsville, Ohio

Top five

Bart Hartman, Zanesville, Ohio

Matt Miller, Waterville, Ohio

Devin Moran, Dresden, Ohio*

Donnie Moran, Dresden, Ohio

Rusty Schlenk, McClure, Ohio*

Next 20

Mark Banal, St. Clairsville, Ohio

Andy Bond, Coolville, Ohio

Todd Brennan, Zanesville, Ohio*

Rick Combs, Bethel, Ohio

Delmas Conley, Wheelersburg, Ohio

R.J. Conley, Wheelersburg, Ohio*

Rod Conley, Wheelersburg, Ohio*

Doug Dodd, Cambridge, Ohio*

Doug Drown, Wooster, Ohio*

Charlie Duncan, Millersburg, Ohio

J.R. Gentry, Wooster, Ohio

Jon Henry, Ada, Ohio

George Lee, Loudonville, Ohio

Ryan Markham, Ashland, Ohio*

Shane McLoughlin, Nashport, Ohio

Kyle Moore, Mansfield, Ohio*

Jason Montgomery, Jackson, Ohio

Casey Noonan, Sylvania, Ohio*

Aaron Scott, Newark, Ohio

John Whitney, Clarksville, Ohio

Honorable mention: Keith Berner, Barry Doss, Larry Bond, John Mason, Ronnie Mayle, John Mollick, Ryan Missler, Shane Yoder.

Pennsylvania

Rank among states (among 26): No. 6

Drivers among national top 25: Rick Eckert

Most special event victories (total): Max Blair (159)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Rick Eckert (2001-25)

Most underrated driver: Gene Knaub

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Lane Snook

Most memorable race: Winning his first Dirt Late Model race in his second start in the division, NASCAR and open-wheel superstar Kyle Larson led all 50 laps for a 2020 Lucas Oil Series victory at Port Royal Speedway.

Defining track: Lernerville Speedway, Sarver, Pa.

Emerging track: Port Royal Speedway

Lost track: Silver Spring Speedway, Mechanicsburg, Pa.

Top five

Max Blair, Centerville, Pa.*

Jason Covert, York Haven, Pa.*

Rick Eckert, York, Pa.*

Chub Frank, Bear Lake, Pa.*

Gregg Satterlee, Indiana, Pa.*

Next 20

Todd Andrews, Eldred, Pa.

Rob Blair, Titusville, Pa.

Boom Briggs, Bear Lake, Pa.*

Alex Ferree, Saxonburg, Pa.*

John Flinner, Zelionople, Pa.

Scott Haus, Hamburg, Pa.

Dave Hess Jr., Waterford, Pa.*

Gene Knaub, Dover, Pa.*

Davey Johnson, Greensburg, Pa.

Michael Lake, Uniontown, Pa.*

Jared Miley, Pittsburgh, Pa.*

Jeremy Miller, Gettysburg, Pa.

Michael Norris, Sarver, Pa.*

Jeff Rine, Danville, Pa.*

David Scott, Garland, Pa.

Dan Stone, Thompson, Pa.*

Gary Stuhler, Greencastle, Pa.*

Dylan Yoder, Selinsgrove, Pa.*

Mason Zeigler, Chalk Hill, Pa.*

Honorable mention: Bob Close, Ron Davies, Nick Dickson, Lynn Geisler, Matt Lux, D.J. Myers, Jack Pencil, Scott Rhoades, D.J. Troutman, Drake Troutman, Jim Yoder.

South Carolina

Rank among states (among 26): No. 14

Drivers among national top 25: Chris Madden

Most special event victories (total): Chris Madden (235)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Chris Madden (2001-25)

Most underrated driver: Mike Measamer

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Jeremy Steele

Most memorable race: In 2003’s March Madness at Cherokee Speedway on the Southern All Star circuit, Donnie Moran goes to first from fourth in the final corner when Duayne Hommel’s last-lap bid sends him spinning with Earl Pearson Jr. and Chris Madden, knocking all three off the podium.

Defining track: Cherokee Speedway, Gaffney, S.C.

Emerging track: Lake View Motor Speedway, Nichols, S.C.

Lost track: I-77 Speedway, Chester, S.C.

Top five

Ross Bailes, Clover, S.C.*

Dennis Franklin, Gaffney, S.C.

Chris Madden, Gray Court, S.C.*

Zack Mitchell, Enoree, S.C.*

Johnny Pursley, Clover, S.C.

Next 20

Dillon Brown, Gaffney, S.C.*

Michael Brown, Pageland, S.C.*

Jeremy Clements, Spartanburg, S.C.

Frank Coates, Hodges, S.C.*

Jeff Cooke, Spartanburg, S.C.

Mike Duvall, Cowpens, S.C.

Ed Gibbons, Manning, S.C.

Brett Hamm, Newberry, S.C.

Petey Ivey, Union, S.C.

Trent Ivey, Union, S.C.*

Hot Rod Lamance, Sugar Tit, S.C.

Timbo Mangum, Lancaster, S.C.*

Mike Measamer, Clinton, S.C.

John Pursley, Clover, S.C.

Billy Rushton, Greenwood, S.C.*

David Smith, Inman, S.C.*

Jeremy Steele, York, S.C.*

Dale Timms, Hodges, S.C.*

Larry Timms, Hodges, S.C.*

Ben Watkins, Rock Hill, S.C.*

Honorable mention: Colby Cannon, Luke Cooper, Mike Huey, Bryan Mullis, Scott Shirey, Jason Womack.

Tennessee

Rank among states (among 26): No. 3

Drivers among national top 25: Scott Bloomquist, Mike Marlar, Jimmy Owens

Most special event victories (total): Scott Bloomquist (240)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Jimmy Owens (2002-25)

Most underrated driver: Tommy Kerr

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Hayden Cardwell

Most memorable race: Amid a series of slide jobs, Kyle Larson outduels Jonathan Davenport in 2023’s Kyle Larson Late Model Challenge at Volunteer Speedway for a $20,000 payday.

Defining track: Smoky Mountain Speedway, Maryville, Tenn.

Emerging track: I-75 Raceway, Sweetwater, Tenn.

Lost track: Atomic Speedway, Kingston, Tenn.

Top five

Scott Bloomquist, Mooresburg, Tenn.

Cory Hedgecock, Loudon, Tenn.*

Mike Marlar, Winfield, Tenn.*

Jimmy Owens, Newport, Tenn.*

Randy Weaver, Crossville, Tenn.*

Next 20

Tony Albright, Clarksville, Tenn.

Skip Arp, Georgetown, Tenn.*

Caleb Ashby, Cunningham, Tenn.*

Jay Brinkley, Shelbyville, Tenn.

Dane Dacus, Arlington, Tenn.

David Gentry, Lewisburg, Tenn.

Riley Hickman, Ooltewah, Tenn.*

Vic Hill, Mosheim, Tenn.*

Duayne Hommel, Newport, Tenn.

Ronnie Johnson, Chattanooga, Tenn.*

Tommy Kerr, Maryville, Tenn.

Mark Martin, Baxter, Tenn.

Todd Morrow, Cleveland, Tenn.*

Billy Ogle Jr., Knoxville, Tenn.

John Ownbey, Cleveland, Tenn.*

Lamar Scoggins, Georgetown, Tenn.

Steve Smith, Powell, Tenn.*

Jason Trammell, Knoxville, Tenn.*

Jason Welshan, Maryville, Tenn.*

Anthony White, Clinton, Tenn.*

Honorable mention: Shanon Buckingham, Mark Douglas, Kevin Gibson, Matt Henderson, Ashley Newman, Chris Ragan, Mike Weeks, Brandon Williams.

Virginia

Rank among states (among 26): No. 22

Drivers among national top 25: None

Most special event victories (total): Kyle Hardy (64)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Kennie Compton Jr. (2010-25)

Most underrated driver: Ronnie DeHaven Jr.

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Wyatt Coffey

Most memorable race: Winning 2018’s USA 100 at Virginia Motor Speedway, Tyler Bare inherited the lead with four laps remaining when Tyler Millwood slowed with a flat tire, then held off Brandon Overton and Dale McDowell for a career-high $20,000 payday.

Defining track: Winchester Speedway

Emerging track: Natural Bridge Speedway

Lost track: Virginia Motor Speedway, Saluda, Va.

Top five

Booper Bare, Rockbridge Baths, Va.

Russell Erwin, Beaver Dam, Va.*

Trever Feathers, Winchester, Va.*

Kyle Hardy, Stephens City, Va.*

Justin Williams, Lynchburg, Va.*

Next 20

Tommy Armel, Winchester, Va.

Tyler Arrington, Honaker, Va.*

Walker Arthur, Forest, Va.*

Tyler Bare, Rockbridge Baths, Va.*

Allen Brannon, Winchester, Va.

Kennie Compton Jr., Bland, Va.*

Mark Crowe, Bassett, Va.

Jonathan DeHaven, Winchester, Va.

Ronnie DeHaven Jr., Winchester, Va.

Tyler Emory, King George, Va.*

Bo Feathers, Winchester, Va.

Billy Hubbard, Cobbs Creek, Va.*

Dakotah Knuckles, Ewing, Va.

Joey Leavell, Waynesboro, Va.*

Kenny Peeples Jr., Rural Retreat, Va.*

Greg Roberson, Waynesboro, Va.

Logan Roberson, Waynesboro, Va.*

Brent Robinson, Smithfield, Va.*

J.T. Spence, Winchester, Va.*

Brandon Umberger, Rural Retreat, Va.*

Honorable mention: David Bennett, David Watts, Neil Welch, Gerald Wolfe Jr.

West Virginia

Rank among states (among 26): No. 12

Drivers among national top 25: Josh Richards

Most special event victories (total): Josh Richards (141)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Mike Benedum (2001-25)

Most underrated driver: Steve Lucas

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Jaycee Carpenter

Most memorable race: In 2012’s Hillbilly 100 at I-77 Speedway, provisional starter Mike Marlar rallies from the 24th and final starting spot for a $25,000 Lucas Oil Series victory.

Defining track: Tyler County Speedway, Middlebourne, W.Va.

Emerging track: West Virginia Motor Speedway, Mineral Wells, W.Va.

Lost track: Pennsboro Speedway

Top five

Tyler Carpenter, Parkersburg, W.Va.*

Eddie Carrier Jr., Salt Rock, W.Va.*

Zack Dohm, Cross Lanes, W.Va.*

Josh Richards, Shinnston, W.Va.

Steve Shaver, Vienna, W.Va.

Next 20

Andy Anderson, Martinsburg, W.Va.

Mike Balzano, Parkersburg, W.Va.

Mike Benedum, Salem, W.Va.*

John Blankenship, Williamson, W.Va.

Colten Burdette, Parkersburg, W.Va.*

Freddie Carpenter, Parkersburg, W.Va.*

Corey Conley, Wellsburg, W.Va.*

Matt Cosner, Ridgeley, W.Va.*

Ryan Montgomery, Fairmont, W.Va.*

Gary Dalton, Morgantown, W.Va.

Tim Dohm, Cross Lanes, W.Va.

Chris Garnes, Evans, W.Va.

Jacob Hawkins, Fairmont, W.Va.*

Jared Hawkins, Fairmont, W.Va.*

Steve Lucas, Charleston, W.Va.

Butch McGill, West Union, W.Va.

Harold Redman Jr., Tyler Mountain, W.Va.

Tim Senic, Elkins, W.Va.*

Rick Williams, Beckley, W.Va.

Paul Wilmoth Jr., Clarksburg, W.Va.

Honorable mention: Gerald Davis, Chuck Harper, Tim Hitt, Henry Hornsby III, Zach Milbee, Robbie Scott, Matt Sponaugle, Kyle Thomas.

Wisconsin

Rank among states (among 26): No. 11

Drivers among national top 25: Jimmy Mars

Most special event victories (total): Jimmy Mars (122)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Pat Doar (2001-25)

Most underrated driver: Ashley Anderson

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Sammy Mars

Most memorable race: Winning his fifth USA Nationals in 2010 at Cedar Lake Speedway, Scott Bloomquist overcame a spin, late pit stop and penalty for a red-flag infraction for a World of Outlaws “ass-kicking” that paid $50,000 on an unforgiving, rugged surface.

Defining track: Cedar Lake Speedway, New Richmond, Wis.

Emerging track: Mississippi Thunder Speedway, Fountain City, Wis.

Lost track: Hales Corners Speedway, Franklin, Wis.

Top five

Pat Doar, New Richmond, Wis.*

A.J. Diemel, Elk Mound, Wis.*

John Kaanta, Elk Mound, Wis.*

Jimmy Mars, Menomonie, Wis.

Brady Smith, Solon Springs, Wis.

Next 20

Ashley Anderson, Elk Mound, Wis.*

Nick Anvelink, Bonduel, Wis.*

Terry Anvelink, Navarino, Wis.

Ron Berna, Shawano, Wis.

Tim Buhler, Glenbeulah, Wis.

Terry Casey, New London, Wis.

Jesse Glenz, Chippewa Falls, Wis.*

Rick Hanestad, Boyceville, Wis.*

Adam Hensel, Baldwin, Wis.*

Steve Laursen, Cumberland, Wis.*

Chad Mahder, Bloomer, Wis.*

Duane Mahder, Eau Claire, Wis.

Mitch McGrath, Waukesha, Wis.*

Pete Parker, Kaukauna, Wis.

Mike Prochnow, Menomonie, Wis.*

Jake Redetzke, Eau Claire, Wis.*

Jerry Redetzke, Eau Claire, Wis.

Russ Scheffler, Waukesha, Wis.

Dan Schlieper, Sullivan, Wis.

Troy Springborn, Shawano, Wis.*

Honorable mention: James Giossi, Brad Mueller, Rick Scheffler, Taylor Scheffler, Gordie Seegert Jr., Brett Swedberg.

Western states

Rank among states (among 26): No. 17

Drivers among national top 25: Ricky Thornton Jr.

Most special event victories (total): Ricky Thornton Jr. (110)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Rob Mayea (2003-23)

Most underrated driver: Clay Daly

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: Dylan Thornton

Most memorable race: In a 2011 Wild West Shootout event in Tucson, Ariz., Bub McCool and Ronny Lee Hollingsworth tangle in turn four on the final lap, sending Hollingsworth into the frontstretch wall and sending McCool to victory lane.

Defining track: Willamette Speedway, Lebanon, Ore.

Emerging track: Vado (N.M.) Speedway Park

Lost track: Manzanita Speedway, Phoenix, Ariz.

Top five

Garrett Alberson, Las Cruces, N.M.*

Kelly Boen, Henderson, Colo.

Bobby Hogge IV, Salinas, Calif.

Eddie Kirchoff, Gillette, Wyo.*

Ricky Thornton Jr., Chandler, Ariz.*

Next 20

Jeep Berry, Grand Junction, Colo.

John Cornell, Phoenix, Ariz.

Clay Daly, Watsonville, Calif.

Steve Drake, San Luis Obispo, Calif.

Trevor Glaser, Tangent, Ore.

Brett Hallmark, Grand Junction, Colo.

Kelly Hample, Billings, Mont.

Eric Jacobsen, Seacliff Beach, Calif.

Mike Johnson, Clovis, Calif.

Kyle Larson, Elk Grove, Calif.

Rob Mayea, Bend, Ore.*

Dean Moore, Grand Junction, Colo.

Jason Papich, Nipomo, Calif.

Lonnie Parker Jr., El Mirage, Ariz.

Johnny Scott, Las Cruces, N.M.

John Silva, Fremont, Calif.

Joey Tanner, Portland, Ore.*

Greg Walters, Portland, Ore.

Collen Winebarger, Corbett, Ore.*

R.C. Whitwell, Tucson, Ariz.

Honorable mention: Mike Collins, Adam Crippen, Justin Duty, Cody Laney, Scott Lewis, Richard Papenhausen, Scott Pounds, Tyler Reddick, Stormy Scott, Jeremy Shank, Dylan Thornton, Brad Williams.

Canada

Rank among states (among 26): No. 26

Drivers among national top 25: None

Most special event victories (total): Ricky Weiss (75)

Widest range of special event victories (years): Mike Balcaen (2002-19)

Most underrated driver: Chris Ross

Predicted best driver of 2026-2050: C.J. Field

Most memorable race: Refocusing after his father was injured in a crash in hot laps, Andrew Reaume captured 2009’s Castrol Shootout at Buxton Speedway for a $4,000 payday.

Defining track: Brighton Speedway

Emerging track: Dead Horse Creek Speedway, Morden, Manitoba

Lost track: Cayuga (Ontario) County Fair Speedway

Top five

Mike Balcaen, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Joel Cryderman, Thunder Bay, Ontario

Andrew Reaume, Blenheim, Ontario

Charlie Sandercock, Trenton, Ontario

Ricky Weiss, Headlingley, Manitoba

Next 20

Brad Authier, Chatham, Ontario

Steve Baldwin Trenton, Ontario*