World of Outlaws Late Models Return to Smoky Mountain Speedway for Two-Night Tennessee Tipoff
The World of Outlaws Late Models returns to Smoky Mountain Speedway in Maryville, TN for the Tennessee Tipoff on March 14-15, marking their first appearance at the track since 2022. The weekend features a $12,000-to-win 35-lap Feature on Friday and a $15,000-to-win 50-lap main event on Saturday.
Sprint cars racing on dirt
Key Storylines:
-
Track Transformation: Smoky Mountain Speedway has been converted from a 4/10-mile to a 3/8-mile oval, creating wider, multi-groove racing. Current World of Outlaws drivers Ryan Gustin, Ricky Thornton Jr., and Brandon Overton have already claimed victories on the new configuration.
-
Recent Activity: Several drivers have maintained momentum during the break. Brian Shirley secured his first win of the year at Springfield Raceway, Cody Overton won at Senoia Raceway, and Cade Dillard triumphed at Boothill Speedway.
-
Local Talent: Tennessee natives Jimmy Owens (21-time World of Outlaws winner) and Mike Marlar (2020 Tennessee Tipoff winner) lead the local contingent looking to defend home turf.
-
Championship Battle: Ryan Gustin currently leads the points standings with 726 points, followed closely by Ricky Thornton Jr. (-4) and Bobby Pierce (-6).
Current Statistics:
- Feature Winners: 4 different drivers
- Heat Race Winners: 15 different drivers
- Podium Finishers: 10 different drivers
Supporting classes include Street Stocks and Front Wheel Drives on Friday, with Sportsman Late Models and Mod Minis racing Saturday.
The event showcases the evolution of Smoky Mountain Speedway while continuing the World of Outlaws' rich history at the venue, dating back to 2004. The new track configuration promises exciting racing as drivers adapt to the shorter, more dynamic layout.