Last-Lap Drama: Thornton Seizes Victory at All-Tech After Moran's Late Tire Issues

Last-Lap Drama: Thornton Seizes Victory at All-Tech After Moran's Late Tire Issues

By Michael Harrison

January 31, 2025 at 02:34 PM

Ricky Thornton Jr. secured a dramatic victory in the 40-lap Wieland Winternationals opener at All-Tech Raceway, capitalizing on race leader Devin Moran's flat tire on the final lap. This marks Thornton's first win of 2025 and his 43rd career Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series victory.

Race car speeds on dirt track

Race car speeds on dirt track

The race saw multiple lead changes, with Moran leading the first 12 laps before Shane Clanton took over from laps 13-17. Moran regained the lead on lap 18 and held it until the final lap when tire trouble struck, allowing Thornton to claim the win.

Max Blair finished second after starting tenth, while Daulton Wilson secured third place. Despite leading 34 laps, Moran limped across the finish line in fourth, with Tyler Erb rounding out the top five.

"I had a good run on that last restart," Thornton said in Victory Lane. "We got to the top of turn three, and he [Moran] was three-wheeling it. Someone's misfortune was good for us, and we'll take it."

The win came in Thornton's Bobby and Jessica Koehler-owned Longhorn Chassis, powered by a Clements Racing Engine. The defending series champion demonstrated why he's the only driver with multiple wins at All-Tech in recent series history.

Jonathan Davenport, Donald McIntosh, Jimmy Owens, Tim McCreadie, and Hudson O'Neal completed the top ten finishers in this season-opening event at the Florida track.

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