Nick Hoffman Clinches Historic 25th Gator Trophy at DIRTcar Nationals Late Model Opener
Nick Hoffman secured his 25th Gator Trophy in Monday's DIRTcar Late Model Feature at Volusia Speedway Park, further extending his record as the driver with the most Gator trophies across all divisions.
Nick Hoffman's blue dirt track racer
Starting from the outside pole position, Hoffman strategically followed Cade Dillard in the early laps before making his move. As the bottom groove became crowded with traffic, Hoffman successfully utilized the high line to pass Dillard after the race's midpoint.
Despite a late challenge from Ricky Thornton Jr., who closed to within a car length, Hoffman maintained his lead through traffic to claim victory. Jonathan Davenport finished third, continuing his strong 2025 performance at Volusia with his third consecutive podium finish.
Key Race Highlights:
- Max Blair earned Hard Charger honors, advancing from 9th to 4th
- Ryan Gustin rounded out the top five
- Cade Dillard set Quick Time in qualifying
- Austin Smith posted the fastest lap in Hot Laps
"I feel like I just know what to expect out of my car here," Hoffman said of his success at Volusia. "Knowing what I need to do to make raw speed, I'm just good at big, sweeping 1⁄2-miles. It's something that I've always been good at."
Feature Results (25 Laps):
- Nick Hoffman
- Ricky Thornton Jr.
- Jonathan Davenport
- Max Blair
- Ryan Gustin
- Brandon Overton
- Cade Dillard
- Brandon Sheppard
- Bobby Pierce
- Mike Marlar
The DIRTcar Late Models return to action Tuesday night as part of the ongoing Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals at Volusia Speedway Park.