Curt Spalding dominated the opening night UMP Modified Feature at the DIRTcar Nationals, securing his second Gator trophy after a five-year drought.

The Watervliet, MI driver led all 20 laps at Barberville's Volusia Speedway Park, successfully defending against strong competition throughout the race. Early challenger George Dixon attempted a slide job but lost traction, giving Spalding a crucial one-second lead.

A mid-race caution brought the field back together, with Kyle Strickler moving into second place and mounting a serious challenge. However, Spalding's strategic bottom-lane racing, combined with a tire choice advantage, proved decisive for the victory.

Strickler finished second after Dixon spun out in the final lap, while David Stremme of Mifflintown, PA, completed the podium. Cole Falloway and Michael Altobelli rounded out the top five.

"I could hear them, but I never saw them," said Spalding, crediting his son Tyler's shock setup for the victory. "We were on a different deal here, and his little shock business is helping propel us up here."

Feature Results (20 Laps):

1. Curt Spalding
2. Kyle Strickler
3. David Stremme
4. Cole Falloway
5. Michael Altobelli
6. Mitch Thomas
7. Kyle Hammer
8. Trevor Neville
9. Ray Bollinger
10. David Wietholder

The DIRTcar UMP Modifieds continue their Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals campaign at Volusia Speedway Park with more racing action to follow.

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