Thornton Dominates Winter Nationals at Ocala for $12,000 Victory
Ricky Thornton Jr. dominated Friday night's Wieland Winter Nationals at Ocala Speedway, leading all 50 laps to claim a $12,000 victory in the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series event.
Race winner celebrates with kid
The reigning series champion held off Hudson O'Neal, who finished second after passing Devin Moran on lap 17. Moran completed the podium in third, followed by Bobby Pierce in fourth and Jonathan Davenport in fifth.
The race saw several key moments, including Brian Shirley's strong early run to second place before a flat tire ended his hopes on lap 16. Thornton maintained control throughout, crossing the finish line 2.503 seconds ahead of O'Neal.
"The car's been really good. I felt like we needed this one," said Thornton in Victory Lane. This marks his third series win of 2025 and fourth career victory at Ocala.
O'Neal celebrated his best finish of the year, while Moran continued his consistent season performance. The top ten was rounded out by Kyle Bronson, Drake Troutman, Daulton Wilson, Brandon Sheppard, and Max Blair.
Thornton's Koehler Motorsports Longhorn Chassis, powered by a Clements Racing Engine, proved dominant throughout the night. The victory came with strong support from sponsors including Ultimate Towing and Recovery, Hoker Trucking, and Coltman Farms Racing.
The race lasted 24 minutes and 7 seconds, with four cautions during the 50-lap event. Daulton Wilson earned Hard Charger honors, advancing 16 positions to finish eighth.