Big Gator Trophy Quest Begins at DIRTcar Nationals as Six Drivers Claim Mini Gators

Big Gator Trophy Quest Begins at DIRTcar Nationals as Six Drivers Claim Mini Gators

By Michael Anderson

February 4, 2025 at 10:32 PM

Six drivers emerged victorious during Monday's DIRTcar UMP Modified racing at Volusia Speedway Park, marking the first chapter of the 2025 Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals Big Gator chase.

DCN winners display racing trophies

DCN winners display racing trophies

Feature #1 saw Gene Nicholas claim his first-ever UMP Modified win after 10 years of trying at Volusia. He led wire-to-wire, finishing 1.5 seconds ahead of Daniel Sanchez.

In Feature #2, Dave Wietholder dominated with his under-powered engine, securing a 2.3-second victory over Brian Ruhlman, while Austin Self charged from 12th to third.

Trevor Neville captured Feature #3 after an exciting battle with Ryan Thomas, making a decisive pass on lap 16 to secure his second career DIRTcar Nationals win.

Bobby Bagley controlled Feature #4 from start to finish, winning by over five seconds in a flawless performance, with Evan Koehler and Jordan Stotts completing the podium.

Chase Holland held off Volusia expert Todd Neiheiser throughout Feature #5 to claim his first victory at the track, while Evan Taylor finished third.

Kyle Strickler overcame early mechanical issues to win Feature #6, holding off Will Krup for his 15th career gator trophy. Despite a last-minute engine change, Strickler's high-line strategy proved successful.

Feature Winners:

  • Feature 1: Gene Nicholas
  • Feature 2: Dave Wietholder
  • Feature 3: Trevor Neville
  • Feature 4: Bobby Bagley
  • Feature 5: Chase Holland
  • Feature 6: Kyle Strickler

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